Constellations of hunger: Discourses of urban food aid in London, Glasgow & Belfast

What influences food aid provision?

Evidence points to the UK becoming increasingly food insecure in recent decades, as the number of people accessing food aid grows year on year. Debates emerging from research into the causes and consequences of food aid relate to social justice, the right to food, poverty, and inequality. This event will present research findings from a British Academy/Leverhulme study, which builds on existing work to offer insight into the lived experiences of food aid provision. It explores decision-making processes and operational strategies, and considers the various motivating factors and challenges faced by both managers and volunteers. The work considers food banks, community / soup kitchens and food redistributors across London, Glasgow and Belfast.

We are delighted to welcome ‘As It Is’ theatre, who will open the event at 6.30pm with extracts from their factual drama ‘Food Bank As It Is’, telling real stories from an active food bank. This will be followed by a presentation from the research team, Nicola Livingstone and Joe Penny, exploring key findings in relation to the variegated experiences of food aid managers and volunteers. We reflect on the future direction of food aid providers, and present recommendations for providers and policy makers alike. We’ll close off the evening with an opportunity for Q&A and further discussion. 

 Refreshments will also be available.