Let’s Talk Money – Orkney Foodbank

Life can change in a heartbeat.  

The loss of a loved one; being made redundant; a debilitating accident or period of illness; an unexpected bill or series of financial challenges – all reasons why one minute life can be fine and the next you find yourself in a position of being unable to fill the fridge or stock the cupboards.  

Please do not go hungry as help is on hand through the Orkney Foodbank.  

Some may think this doesn't happen here, but the sad reality is that more folk than ever are struggling. Latest figures indicate 2,000 people live below the poverty line in Orkney which is a stark reality. In addition, we have one of the highest levels of fuel poverty, which is further hardship to those in need in our community where some have to choose whether they ‘heat’ or ‘eat.’    

The voluntary-run charity provided food parcels to feed 1761 people in 2023/24 - 642 were children. Almost 888 said they were struggling due to rising costs of essentials. 

The Council and partnership agencies have an ongoing Let’s Talk Money campaign making folk aware of the support and help that is available locally, as well as nationally.  

Orkney Foodbank was set up under the umbrella of the Trussell Trust in 2013 and is staffed mainly by volunteers but have also employed two part time staff such is the demand on the service.  

Alan Scott, Manager of the Orkney Foodbank said: “We would not be in existence without the amazing support from the people of Orkney who generously donate money, food, toiletries, cleaning products and other essential items - and we are continuously amazed by the level of donations we receive from local folks, both individuals and larger groups, too numerous to mention.  

“Our purpose is to provide a parcel with three days of food and other items to folk referred to us in a time of crisis. Anyone referred to us will get a parcel as well as any additional support available at the time.  

“As well as our usual foodbank parcels, we also do Child Holiday Meals for those struggling to keep up with hungry children’s appetites whereby we can provide a box of non-perishable items to boost the store cupboard.  

“Such is the level of support across Orkney we have now increased the number of referral agencies to 54 – which is a mix of statutory and third sector bodies.  

“We would urge those who are in need themselves, or know someone in need, to contact Citizens Advice, GPs, health visitors, social workers etc, so they can refer you to us as we don’t issue parcels without a referral being received. We can get food to all areas of Orkney – including the isles – so please don’t think that location affects folks from qualifying for support from us.  

“We have donation points for leaving donations at Tesco and the Co-ops, Asda in Dounby and donations can be left at Dunkirk, Shore Street, Kirkwall between 12-2pm, Tuesdays and Fridays. Or arrangements can be made by emailing info@orkney.foodbank.org.ukor by phoning 01856 873685.” 

A typical food parcel includes cereal, pasta, soup, rice, pasta sauce, tins of meat/fish, veg, beans, tea or coffee, UHT milk, sugar, biscuits, snacks. 

At the moment the Foodbank would be grateful for donations of UHT milk, fruit juice, tinned fruit, savoury biscuits, deodorant, razors, tinned soups, spaghetti, cup a soup, jam, coffee, tea bags, tinned meat, toothpaste. As we near Christmas any Christmas goodies (nothing with alcohol) would also be gratefully received.