As a vital service providing food and conversation to thousands of people every week across the country, FoodCycle projects can legally operate. As with other takeaway services and with additional COVID-19 policies and procedures already in place, under the new rules, they can continue to provide much needed food to local communities.

FoodCycle CEO Mary McGrath MBE (left) says: “Our number one priority will always be the safety and welfare of our guests and volunteers and we will continue to work with our teams, volunteers and venues to maintain our high standards and keep everyone as safe as possible while delivering this vital service to vulnerable people across the country.”

Under the new restrictions FoodCycle guests can continue to collect nutritious food for themselves and their households. Those unable to visit their local FoodCycle project due to self-isolating or shielding can ask a friend, neighbour or family member to collect on their behalf legally under the ‘reasonable excuse’ category. Those who fall under the category of critically vulnerable or have been told to shield can access extra provision through NHS Responders.

Created in April 2020 in reaction to the first national lockdown, Foodcycle’s Check-in and Chat service is also open. Helping to combat the rising issue of social isolation during the pandemic, volunteers call guests for a weekly natter.

A FoodCycle Guest says: “It makes me very happy that Foodcycle are still looking out for people and caring for the community during this time.”

Foodcycle Birmingham is currently operating projects at the following locations:

Birmingham Falcon Lodge Community Centre for Cook and Collect every Monday from 3–4pm as well as weekly deliveries
Birmingham Longbridge is running a temporary food parcel weekly delivery service to those living in B31 and B45 area