How UKHarvest’s Nourish Hub is tackling food waste and food poverty

Located in Shepherd’s Bush, West London, UKHarvest’s Nourish Hub is making a significant impact on the local community by addressing food poverty, enhancing nutrition, and fostering social connections.

Since its launch in 2022, the Hub has become a crucial resource for families, households, and vulnerable individuals, offering daily lunches on a ‘donate as you are able’ basis, breakfast clubs and monthly community suppers, as well as educational programmes for both adults and young people.

The Sussex-based food rescue charity, UKHarvest, has been working to reduce food waste across the supply chain. Last year alone, the organisation rescued over 616 tonnes of surplus edible food, redistributing it to those in need. Nourish Hub, as its London-based community kitchen, plays a vital role in this mission, not only providing meals but also creating a welcoming environment where people can connect and thrive.

Ffion Hayward, Nourish Hub Manager, emphasised the inclusive nature of the Hub: “Nourish Hub is open to everybody. We ensure that anyone who is seeking support or help can come to the Hub and know that they are in a safe, supportive space.”

Making a positive impact

A recent study by UKHarvest, detailed in the ‘Our Hub, Your Voice’ report, highlights the positive influence of the Nourish Hub on the community and tackling food poverty in the local area. Conducted between 18 March and 3 May 2024, the research involved feedback from residents and volunteers, focusing on how the Hub is meeting local needs through the use of rescued food.

Key findings from the report include:

• Improving Access to Healthy Food: Over 70% of Nourish Hub visitors reported an increase in their intake of nutritious food since using the Hub.
• Easing Financial Pressure: Nearly 79% of users noted that the Hub had alleviated their financial challenges.
• Increasing Social Connection: More than 82% of participants stated that they had formed new connections through the Hub.

CEO Yvonne Thomson reflected on the Hub’s impact: “Since opening the Nourish Hub in 2022, we have been able to reach members of the community that did not have enough support. Hammersmith & Fulham Borough Council have worked closely with UKHarvest to make sure that we are accurately and efficiently creating a space for communities to share and obtain healthy and nutritious food for an affordable price, a welcoming space to feel safe and supported and educational offerings to create independence and confidence. The Our Hub Your Voice 2024 report showcases how incredibly impactful that Hub is to all users.”