Dorset food projects have come together amid concerns people may struggle to feed themselves this winter.

Dorset Council and networking organiser Help and Kindness jointly hosted Feeding Dorset 2, a coming together of those who help provide affordable food for communities.

The event, the second of its kind, featured informative presentations, interactive workshops, and networking sessions on accessible food.

It brought together a wide range of initiatives, from community gardens and food banks to educational programmes and sustainable horticulture projects.

Weymouth-based the Nest community supermarkets were in attendance with Neil Hardisty talking about the evolution of the stores and Caroline Buxton of Citizen Advice spoke of the expected hardships people will face in the coming months.

Jon Sloper, CEO of Help and Kindness, said: “Help and Kindness were proud and pleased to host this amazing gathering of people who share a passion to provide affordable, emergency, and locally sourced food to our communities.

“A central theme of the event, which was clear to see and hear in the discussions, was the strength that comes from working together to tackle issues.

“We’d love to hear from others who would like to link into the Feeding Dorset network and join in the discussions and action around food across Dorset.”

The event was held at The Old Power House in Blandford Forum on October 11 and was attended by more than 75 people from various organisations.

It also showcased the tremendous efforts undertaken by individuals, groups, and organisations to support people in need to access affordable and emergency food, and to build Dorset’s local food resilience.

Attendees also had the chance to discover new resources, share success stories, and explore collaborative opportunities for future endeavours.

Cllr Laura Beddow, Dorset Council portfolio holder for culture, communities and customer services, said: “I had the pleasure to attend the first event and the second one did not disappoint.

"It was amazing to see everyone coming together to address the food-related challenges faced by residents of Dorset. I express my thanks to everyone who is working to support people who need emergency and affordable food in Dorset.”

Dorset Council is also working with Citizen Advice to help support residents who are still being impacted by the cost-of-living with the following issues:

  • money, benefits, bills and debts
  • access to food
  • housing for renters and owners
  • support for children
  • mental health and wellbeing
  • utilities such as gas and water
  • employment rights

To find out more about Help and Kindness and Feeding Dorset 2 visit www.helpandkindness.co.uk

To find out more about how to get help with the cost-of-living visit www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/cost-of-living-help