Pay as you feel community market

The environment

Environmental Impact Diverting food from landfill By intercepting over 31 tonnes of surplus food, we prevented it from being wasted. Food waste in landfill produces methane, a greenhouse gas over 25 times more harmful than CO₂. Redirecting this food significantly reduced harmful emissions. Reducing greenhouse gas emissions Preventing 31,000 kg of food from rotting in landfill is estimated to have avoided the release of over 78 tonnes of CO₂ equivalent into the atmosphere (based on WRAP UK data that every tonne of food waste generates ~2.5 tonnes CO₂e). Saving resources used in food production Every kilogram of food requires water, land, transport, and energy to produce. By redistributing surplus, we ensured those resources weren’t wasted. This helped reduce unnecessary strain on agriculture and supply chains. Encouraging sustainable choices The market has raised awareness about food waste and inspired local people to think differently about sustainability. Volunteers and residents are learning how to use surplus creatively, making better use of food that might otherwise go to waste.

The local economy

Economic Impact Reduced household costs By supporting over 400 people each week with affordable or free food, families saved money on essentials. This extra income could be redirected into other local spending (e.g. bills, transport, childcare, leisure), keeping money circulating in the community. Strengthened financial resilience Access to food reduced financial stress for households, helping them avoid debt or reliance on emergency services. Families were better able to budget and plan, creating greater stability. Volunteer skills development Volunteers gained experience in areas such as customer service, food handling, logistics, and teamwork. These skills can increase employability and open up pathways to local jobs or training opportunities, boosting the local labour market. Supporting local suppliers and redistribution networks By partnering with food suppliers and redistribution charities, the project strengthened ties within the local supply chain. Surplus food that once had no value is now part of a circular economy, creating social and economic benefit. Increased community participation The market has become a hub where people gather, network, and share knowledge. Stronger community links can encourage local enterprise, volunteering, and cooperative initiatives in the future.

Volunteering, jobs & education

Volunteering Impact More opportunities created The Community Market runs every Friday, needing reliable support to set up, sort food, welcome visitors, and run the kitchen. This created regular volunteering roles that didn’t exist before the project. Range of roles available Volunteers could take on tasks suited to their interests and abilities, including: Collecting and transporting food Sorting and displaying surplus Greeting and supporting visitors Preparing meals and refreshments Helping with cleaning and logistics Personal development Volunteers reported gaining confidence, skills, and new friendships. Some received food hygiene training and practical work experience, improving their employability. The market gave people who were isolated or out of work a sense of purpose and belonging. Community ownership The project shifted from being just “for the community” to being run by the community. Volunteers now play a central role in shaping and sustaining the market. Pathways into employment A number of volunteers have used their experience as a stepping stone into jobs or further training, showing how the project contributes to both personal growth and the wider local economy.

Activity, health and leisure

Health, Activity & Leisure Impact Access to healthier food By redistributing surplus fresh produce, the market helps families include more fruit, vegetables, and balanced meals in their diets. This improves nutrition and supports healthier lifestyles, especially for those who might otherwise struggle to afford fresh food. Reduced stress & improved wellbeing Knowing that food is available each week reduces financial stress and food insecurity, both of which are closely linked to mental health. The welcoming, social atmosphere of the market helps combat loneliness and isolation. Encouraging physical activity Volunteers and participants take part in active roles such as lifting, sorting, setting up stalls, and helping with collections. For many volunteers, this regular physical involvement provides gentle, meaningful exercise as part of their weekly routine. A space for social leisure The market has become more than just a place to collect food — it’s a community hub. People enjoy stopping to chat, share recipes, have a cup of tea, and connect with others. This creates opportunities for leisure, social activity, and community bonding in a safe and welcoming environment. Promoting learning and healthy habits Families are encouraged to try new foods, share cooking tips, and learn how to reduce waste. This supports long-term healthy eating habits and a culture of sustainability.