Why start a Your Local Pantry?

Each community has different wants and needs for bringing people together around food so why do so many organisations choose Your Local Pantry, rather than trying to go it alone?

We hear various reasons - and here are just five...

Firstly, we are very flexible, which means we can be fitted into your local project very naturally. We don’t impose – we work together.

Secondly, the logistical and operational systems and support are fantastic, so in terms of running an organised database that enables you to keep track of membership and meeting all the requirements around food storage etc, you get an enormous head start.

Thirdly, there’s a wealth of experience in the team – they’ve navigated countless scenarios over the years, and are well-placed to ensure Pantries open smoothly and remain sustainable.

Fourthly, there’s also the connection with like-minded people and groups around the country, including the option of regular catch-ups with other Pantry coordinators. You are joining a wide movement of compassionate communities.

And finally, there’s also the chance to connect with other campaigns and activities working towards even bigger lasting change – lots of Pantry members this year have been involved in projects like Speaking Truth To Power, so that people on low incomes are really listened to and involved in change, and also in the creative strand of the Let’s End Poverty campaign.

Becoming a Your Local Pantry gives you access to a vast range of experience, knowledge, support and essential materials, to help make your Pantry a success.

The YLP package includes:

1. Set-up and development support. A comprehensive development process delivered by a dedicated Development Worker, who will provide one to one support to develop and open the Pantry.
2. Pantry Handbook. A comprehensive manual giving step-by-step instructions to guide you through setting up and operating a Pantry.
3. Procedures, Guidance Documents and Templates. Documents relating to day-to-day Pantry operations and performance management. PDF Templates of Pantry operational documents. Guidance Documents on additional options for Pantries such as Family Membership or Healthy Start Vouchers.
4. Digital Marketing Package. Personalised branding and a digital marketing packaging including posters, flyers and social media content.
5. Pantry Management Software. Bespoke membership management system with built in reporting and monitoring. The system also records and reporting Pantry finances, volunteer management and referral tracking.
6. Training. Management Training, Volunteer Training and Software Training delivered during the development period. Refresher training and access to training resources also.
7. Annual conference and Networking Opportunities. An annual network conference, regular Pantry networking events. Ongoing communications across the Your Local Pantry network to share learning and access peer support.
8. Ongoing Support. Pantries in the network receive ongoing support by a core support team, with appointed Development Worker.
9. Network Partnerships. As part of a recognised model, the network provides access to national partners, suppliers and service providers.
10. Uniform. Each Pantry receives an initial batch of branded uniforms.
11. Website. Advertising of each Pantry site, good news stories and key messages via www.yourlocalpantry.co.uk
12. Opportunities for member action and member voices to be amplified. Support in enabling member voices to be heard through Pantry specific steering and action groups, or through regional and national Speaking Truth to Power (STTP) and Let's End Poverty programs and campaigns.

If you’d like to discuss how YLP could work with your organisation, please complete our enquiry form and a member of our team will be touch.

Enquiry Form