Salisbury Pantry provides support to residents worried about the rising cost of living

Wednesday, 2 March 2022 00:00

The team at 'Your Salisbury Pantry' are reaching out to families and individuals who are worried about the rising cost of living.

The Salisbury Pantry takes unsold food from supermarkets and local businesses to redistribute at an affordable cost to those on low incomes. The Catherine Street shop charges only £5 for 16 items with fresh fruit and veg on top.

The shop, staffed by Salisbury City Council’s Communities Team and loyal volunteers, has seen 1,700 customers through the doors since opening in April 2021 and continues to see an increased need for the service it offers.

The team are aware that recent world events are causing concern for households with considerable increases in energy and fuel costs. Households who have already seen a rise in their cost of living due to the fuel cap increase are bracing themselves for the worse to come.

A member of the Salisbury City Council Leadership Group Cllr Victoria Charleston said, “So many people are struggling with price increases at the moment with household incomes being stretched even further; the stress of counting every penny can really take its toll.

"Last month, activist Jack Monroe highlighted how price rises affect the cheapest products the most, well above national inflation. If you are struggling to make ends meet, if your budget is stretched and you feel you are running out of things to cut back on, you are not alone and help is available, the Salisbury Pantry is here to support you and your family.”

The shop’s new manager, Chloe Roberts said, “Our light, airy shop has a warm and welcoming atmosphere with friendly staff who are always on hand to give advice or share a banana bread recipe. Please do pop in and see us.”

People interested in signing up to membership of The Pantry can do so here.

Shoppers are assured a warm welcome and relaxed, welcoming atmosphere in the store.

If you are a business that would like to donate food or other household items please contact the Pantry Team at salisburypantry@salisburycitycouncil.gov.uk

Photography by Ash Mills.