Last month One Bromley Champions came together to prepare A5 envelopes, stuffing each pack with a range of practical information, including:-
- Bromley Well service flyers;
- support information for people who care for family members/loved ones;
- and a range of local health service information, like the Bromley Health and Wellbeing Centre, Vital 5, Lifestyle Medicine, Weight Management and Smokefree Bromley.
BTSE then delivered 500 packs to the food bank distribution point in Orpington where volunteers added them to food parcels being distributed across the whole borough.
Collaboration in action
The project aimed to reach people with clear, hard‑copy information about the wide range of free support available from Bromley Well. This includes help with benefits, cost of living pressures, housing, employment support, and specialist advice for unpaid carers and people living with disabilities.
The project is a strong example of collaboration in action, bringing together NHS partners, local charities, staff and volunteers to support Bromley residents at a time when many are facing increased challenges.
Andy, Transform Bromley Borough's Food Partnership Coordinator based in Orpington said:
“Food banks are about much more than food. Many of the people we support are facing multiple challenges, and including these information packs in our parcels means families are also receiving details about support that could really make a difference to their day‑to‑day lives.”
Sue, Manager at BTSE highlighted the importance of reaching people who may not be online.
“Not everyone is able or confident to search for help on the internet. By including information directly in food parcels, we are reaching people where they are, and making it easier to find support when it’s needed.”
Teresa, Communications and Engagement Manager for the NHS South East London Integrated Care Board, also welcomed the partnership approach:
“This initiative highlights the positive impact of organisations working together. With the expertise of the NHS, Public Health, charities, and volunteers we can raise awareness of the help available across the borough and make it easier for people to access the support they need. A huge thanks to the One Bromley Community Health Champions and foodbank team for their support”
Notes
More information:-
One Bromley Health Champions: https://www.selondonics.org/in-your-area/bromley/get-involved-in-bromley/
Transform Bromley Borough: https://transformbromleyborough.org/
BTSE (Bromley Third Sector Enterprise) https://btse.org.uk/
NHS South East London Integrated Care Board: https://www.selondonics.org/icb/