Crisis & Resilience Project
Project description
Newquay Foodbank coordinates a Cornwall-wide support scheme to help people living in emergency housing or at risk of homelessness.
The project aims to prevent initial crises, intervene where support is needed, and ultimately build individual and community resilience.
When a person or family has found themselves in emergency accommodation, they are often in an area they don’t know. They may have no family or friends nearby who can offer them help.
The project, funded by the UK Government’s Crisis and Resilience Fund via Cornwall Council, aims to connect voluntary sector and community organisations with the people who require support.
These organisations provide Support Coaches, who offer non-judgemental and specialised coaching. They help people build resilience and a brighter future.
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Feedback from a Supported Person:
“Knowing I’ve got proper meals coming each week has taken a lot of worry away. I’m hoping the mobility scooter will help me get some independence back.”
Lived Experience Case Studies
Newquay Foodbank example:
Fleeing domestic violence from another part of the UK, a young woman arrived in Cornwall with no belongings, no home, no food and little hope.
Feeling overwhelmed, sensitive and fearful of being found by her abuser, she was referred to Newquay Foodbank via the project.
We were able to provide essentials such as shampoo, bread and milk when she had no money nor benefits for three weeks.
One of our Support Coaches reached out to her while she was housed in emergency accommodation. She accepted our support and trust began to be built as we listened to her situation and the trauma she had experienced.
To overcome her fears of being discovered by her abuser, and to access food support, we helped to secure a bus pass. She could then begin to get out into the community, alongside emotional support from her Coach.
Eventually, she moved to a long-term temporary location. We referred her to other charities for assistance, and began to enable her to access items such as a fridge, freezer, a washing machine, a kettle, a sofa, a bed, and other essential items.
We are also supporting her towards independence via our community pantry, The Stores.
She has shown incredible resilience to push through her anxieties, and to work with our Support Coach. We continue to build the relationship. She phones when required for emotional support and to update on her circumstances.
Her life has changed and she is now ready for therapy to help her move on with her life.