Families across North Tyneside are accessing affordable, nutritious food each week through community food clubs run by The Bread and Butter Thing, new 2025 impact data shows.
North Tyneside Council has worked in partnership with The Bread and Butter Thing since 2022 to expand access to low-cost food through local community venues.
The scheme now operates six food hubs across the Borough, supporting 4832 members and delivering the equivalent of 456,396 meals over the past year.
The affordable food clubs help families manage ongoing cost of living pressures by offering weekly grocery shops for a small payment, providing dignity and choice without the need for referrals.
Councillor Joan Walker, Cabinet Member for Public Health and Socio-Economic Inequalities said “Providing access to affordable and nutritious food is crucial as families continue to feel effects of rising prices of everyday essentials like food, energy and rent. These figures show just how impactful the scheme has been in North Tyneside, supporting thousands of our residents to buy food at reduced prices and tackling inequalities in the Borough while also reducing food waste.”
Members report that the scheme helps them save money, worry less about feeding their families and eat more healthily.
A Family Gateway member who has used the service said “I have made friends and enjoy the welcome I receive from the volunteers. I’ve tried different food and it has helped my pension last longer.”
Food clubs are based in familiar community settings helping to provide a welcoming, dignified and consistent service.
And local volunteers play a key role in running the hubs, contributing more than 7,000 hours over the past year in North Tyneside alone.
Vic Harper, Chief Executive of The Bread and Butter Thing says: “Amid rising costs, many households are only just keeping their heads above water, it only takes a small, unexpected expense to tip the balance. Our hubs make nutritious, affordable food available while reducing waste and bringing communities together. Our hubs in North Tyneside give local families a space to share ideas, access good food, and support one another.”
The six hubs in North Tyneside operate weekly at:
- Monday – St Aidan’s Church, Tynemouth
- Tuesday – St Mary Magdalene in Longbenton
- Wednesday – Shiremoor Adventure Playground
- Thursday – Fordley Primary School
- Friday – Howdon Community Hub
Anyone living locally can join The Bread and Butter Thing. There is no referral needed and membership is free. Anyone interested in joining can register by texting 07507 237 311 with their name, postcode, and chosen hub. Volunteers are also welcome, find out more at https://www.breadandbutterthing.org/volunteers
A map of locations and opening times, along with other food support venues, are available at: Food support venues | North Tyneside Council