Mansfield District Council is reminding people in the district that food help is available for those in need through three new FOOD (Food On Our Doorstep) clubs — and that more clubs are planned.

It has been working with two leading national charities, Family Action and FoodShare, to open the first three clubs in Bellamy, Oaktree and Portland wards.

The council acted to tackle food insecurity in the district after reports showing the number of families finding it hard to put food on the table had increased four-fold during the Covid-19 pandemic.
The council has been awarded £70,000 from the Nottinghamshire County Council Emergency Fund and it has been working with stakeholders involved in the Mansfield Health Partnership to explore other ways to make a difference to residents facing food insecurity.

Marion Bradshaw, portfolio holder for safer communities, housing and wellbeing, said: “The council has been responding to the pandemic by supporting vulnerable people, thanks to emergency funding.

“It is unfortunate that there is an increasing demand for food support in our most needy areas, but I am proud that we have been able to deliver a provision for some of our most vulnerable wards.”

The funding also aims to provide a further seven FOOD clubs across the district.

If you live in one of the identified wards and find yourself in need, visit the relevant FOOD club on the designated day. This is a walk-up service and does not require a referral.

Details of the current clubs now open are:

Bellamy Ward
Every Friday, 1pm-3pm, Tuxford Court Community Centre, NG18 4NU.

Oak Tree Ward
Every Friday, 1pm-3pm, Oak Tree Lane Surgery, NG18 3SF.

Portland Ward
Every Tuesday, 3.30pm-5.30pm, Dallas Street Resource Centre, NG18 5TA.