Access to Food in Wandsworth: Challenges and Community Solutions
Access to nutritious and affordable food is an important and vital need, yet many residents in Wandsworth face significant barriers in accessing it. With the rising cost of living and the ongoing impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, food insecurity has become a growing concern.
The cost of housing and other living expenses in the borough has been steadily rising, leaving some families with limited budgets for food. For many, this means choosing between paying for rent, utilities, and other essentials or putting food on the table.
Below we are highlighting the community-driven efforts to address these issues.
Community resources
In response to the growing need, several community organizations in Wandsworth have stepped up to provide support and resources to those struggling with access to food.
Saving money food places
The Healthier Catering Commitment is a scheme that helps food businesses offer healthier choices to their customers. The scheme recognises businesses in London that demonstrate a commitment to reducing the levels of saturated fat, salt and sugar in the food sold in their premises. Refer to the map to find out where you can find healthier items on the menu before the next time you eat out.
The list below is some great places you’re able to reduce food waste and find more affordable options to accessing food.
- Odd box
- Food bank Wandsworth
- Deaba Catering CIC – offering free meals on the first Friday of each month to the community.
- Itsu half price food, 30 minutes before store closing all their sushi and salads are available at half price.
- RacketsCubed community box
Want to donate food?
If you’re looking for ways to donate and support others who are experiencing hardship, we have a list below you can see.
- You’re able to donate food items, toiletries, money and your time to Wandsworth Food Bank to support others.
- Supermarkets – your local supermarket will have a food donation box or a food donation bag that you’re able to buy for someone who needs it.
- You can make a donation to Wandsworth Food Bus.
- FoodCycle also take donations from small businesses, supermarkets or anywhere providing fresh produce.
Volunteering Opportunities
If you’re interested in volunteering for organisations in Wandsworth who are helping to support others going through hardship, we’ve highlighted a few organisations who take on volunteers.
- Food cycle are looking for volunteers and they have a wide range of roles to suit different skill sets. Learn more here.
- Family Action. Volunteer and help strengthen families and communities.
By working together, the community can continue to develop innovative solutions to ensure that no one in Wandsworth goes hungry. For current events in the community have a look on our events page.
Do you or someone you know urgently need help? Click here to learn more on how to get help with access to food.