Agenda item

Camberley Besom

Minutes:

The Committee received a presentation from Greg Scott, “Time-giver”, and Gael Brodie, Trustee, in respect of the services of Camberley BESOM and their partnership work with the Council.

Camberley BESOM sought to alleviate poverty and financial hardship in Camberley in the surrounding area via the provision of basic goods, such as food and household items, to individuals and families in need.  Camberley BESOM was one of 29 BESOM groups in South East England; and following its founding in 2009  it moved to its Bridge Road premises in 2013. The organisation now had 6 registered trustees and more than 20 time givers.

In contrast to other local services, Camberley BESOM’s food parcels were provided in response to a referral from a local partnering agency, which also helped the individuals and families tackle the cause of their need. The list of Partnering agencies consisted of  Citizens Advice Surrey Heath, the Council, social housing providers; and charities such as Home Start, The Hope Hub, and local churches, as well as schools and nurseries.  In the event of an emergency response one-off food parcels could be  provided. However longer term food parcel support required a sponsor from one of the partner agencies, whom worked with the family and or individual to provide help and guidance where necessary.

During the height of the Covid-19 pandemic, it was highlighted that most of the Camberley BESOM’s team had to shield. Whilst at the start of the pandemic, the BESOM, the Council’s services and Surrey Heath Prepared combined to create a centralised distribution hub, by July 2020 operations had started to return to the BESOM’s Camberley Warehouse with driver support from the Council.

Outside the pandemic setting the BESOM and as part of its core work, provided various packs to Surrey Heath Residents, which included kitchen starter packs, bedding and towel packs, and new parent packs. As part of the organisation’s regular work the BESOM also provided Christmas Food Parcels. Demand during 2020 for this service was 2.5 times higher than in 2019.

It was noted that the  Camberley BESOM had been in receipt of a grant from the Council which originated from the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) Hardship Fund of £29,000. The organisation aimed to continue to support those in the greatest need and adapt  where necessary. .

Arising from Members questions and comments the following points were noted:

·         Despite the importance of their services being highlighted during the pandemic, BESOM were struggling to attract volunteers. It was noted that the Council could provide additional support in respect of encouraging new volunteers. In addition, it was emphasised how invaluable the Council’s support was in respect of providing the drivers to deliver food parcels at the height of the pandemic.

·         The BESOM were willing to work in partnership with new foodbanks, such as Bisley and West End Foodbanks, and build a relationship where if required such foodbanks can make referrals to the BESOM in order to provide long term support.

·         It was clarified that, whilst an increase in volunteer numbers wouldn’t be unhelpful, Camberley BESOM was particularly looking to attract a new generation of trustees. However, preferably such trustees would be recruited within the Church network.

 

The Committee thanked Greg and Gael for their presentation and informative insight.

 

 

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