Published on: 9 June 2023

Foodbank.PNGA new foodbank drop off point has been opened at George Eliot Hospital by nine year old Darcy Bewin, after she heard about the scheme launched by the Trust’s voluntary services and wanted to help the local community.

The new point, located at the hospital’s main entrance, has been developed by the Trust’s volunteer service and gives patients, visitors and staff the opportunity to donate items to a local foodbank, run by the Trussell Trust, and serving people and families in the local area.

When Darcy heard about the scheme from her dad Christian Hancox, who works at the hospital, she was determined to get involved.

Christian said: “Darcy understands that things are hard for many people now and that some can’t afford to buy everything they need, and really wanted to do her bit to help.

“We decided to go to our local store and buy all the essential items on the list given to us by the foodbank team.

“We are so proud of Darcy and her drive to make a difference and encourage anybody who can do to also donate and help people in our community.”

The items Darcy bought were delivered to the hospital on the grand opening day, where she was asked to cut the ribbon to officially open the drop off point which is open from Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm next to the Voluntary Services Office in the main entrance.

Gertie Nic Philib, Chief People Officer at George Eliot Hospital NHS Trust added: “We are blown away by Darcy’s commitment to the foodbank and that’s why she had cut the ribbon and officially open it for us.

“We know that there are people in the community who rely on foodbanks and as a key part of that community we want to ensure we help people as much as we possibly can, we are proud to serve our community in any way we can.”

People are being encouraged to donate items such as cereal, soup and pasta. A full list can be found on the Trussell Trust Website here  www.trusselltrust.org/get-help/emergency-food/food-parcel/.