Andy’s story: the power of partnership and being heard

When Andy reached out to our food bank for support, he was facing a housing crisis. Unable to work due to serious health conditions, he was living in a private rented property with rising rent that had become impossible to sustain. The fear of losing his home — and of failing his son, left Andy feeling overwhelmed. 

“I just didn’t want my son to be left in the lurch,” Andy says. 

Reaching out 

Andy had never thought of asking for help himself. He always felt that others were more deserving of emergency food, even when there was very little to eat at home. 

He first became aware of our food bank after seeing a post on a local Facebook group from someone who was struggling and had turned to the community for help. One of our foodbank volunteers replied with a simple message: “We can help.” Seeing that kindness offered so openly made a difference and encouraged Andy to reach out to us. 

“Coming to see you was hard. I didn’t know what to expect,” he says. 

Like many people, Andy worried about stigma. What he found instead was a welcoming space, time to talk, and someone willing to listen to his whole story. 

More than food 

Andy didn’t come looking for food support, he needed help finding his way through a complex system. He came along to one of our weekly Tea, Toast, Talk sessions, where he spoke with our Participation Manager, Keely. After taking the time to listen to Andy’s story, Keely reassured him that he wasn’t alone and that we could help. She then connected him with Claudia from Chichester District Council’s Supporting You team, beginning a partnership that would prove vital. 

“Claudia was just terrific — she helped me every step along the way,” he recalls. 

With her support, Andy understood his housing options, accessed the right benefits, and moved safely onto Universal Credit without a gap in income. He also discovered he should have been on the housing register – something he hadn’t realised was possible. 

“If I’d tried to do it myself, I’d have messed it up, and that could’ve meant weeks with no money coming in,” he says. 

A turning point 

Three months earlier, Andy was at his lowest point and struggling with the uncertainty of his situation. With practical support in place, he began to regain hope. 

“I’ve got a spark back in my life. It’s not all doom and gloom now, it’s pretty good” he says. 

Looking ahead 

Today, Andy is settled in his new home and starting to make it his own, enjoying the calm of a garden that backs onto open fields. 

It’s going to be a fantastic home for myself and my son. And we’ll be alright,” he says. 

Support that goes further than food 

Andy’s story shows why the food bank is more than food. While emergency food support is vital, lasting change happens when people are supported holistically, through practical help, trusted partnerships, and the time to be heard. 

“The food bank doesn’t just give out food. Just contact them, there’s nothing to lose. They really know how to help with all sorts of problems,” Andy says, offering advice to others in similar situations. 

Support is offered in many different ways, through signposting to local organisations that can help with everything from debt management and health to housing, employment and caring responsibilities, and through our Beyond Food: Stronger Futures programme, which offers groups, workshops and practical guidance. 

Together, this support reflects a wider commitment in Chichester District to helping people build stability and independence, and to working towards a future where foodbanks are no longer needed. 

If you, or someone you know is struggling, please reach out. We’re here to help.

Andy with our Participation Manager, Keely at his new home 

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