Nine-year-old opens community food bank drop off point at George Eliot Hospital

The food is donated to a Trussell Trust food bank which serves people and families in the local area.

A new food bank drop-off point has been opened at George Eliot Hospital.

The new point, located at the hospital’s main entrance, gives patients, visitors and staff the opportunity to donate items to a local food bank.

The food is then donated to a Trussell Trust food bank which serves people and families in the local area.

The drop-off point was opened by nine-year-old Darcy Bewin, after she heard about the scheme and wanted to help the local community.

Darcy heard about the scheme from her dad Christian Hancox, who works at the hospital, and she was determined to get involved.

Christian Hancox said: “Darcy understands that things are hard for many people now and that some can’t afford to buy everything they need, and really wanted to do her bit to help.

“We decided to go to our local store and buy all the essential items on the list given to us by the foodbank team.

“We are so proud of Darcy and her drive to make a difference and encourage anybody who can do to also donate and help people in our community.”

The drop-off point is open from Monday to Friday 9 am to 5 pm next to the Voluntary Services Office in the main entrance.

Gertie Nic Philib, Chief People Officer at George Eliot Hospital NHS Trust, said: “We know that there are people in the community who rely on foodbanks and as a key part of that community we want to ensure we help people as much as we possibly can, we are proud to serve our community in any way we can.”