Category

• Promising Local Practice

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Poverty impact

• Mitigation

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Poverty driver

• Reduce cost of living
• Provide benefit in-kind (material)

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Keywords

• Food Insecurity
• Meal delivery
• Empowerment
• Health
• Nutrition

Aim

To reduce the cost of living for low-income Midlothian residents by delivering nutritious meals to their homes or accommodation.

Summary

Midlothian Reheatable Foods Service was a meal delivery service administered by the Midlothian Council and the British Red Cross. Ready-made meals were delivered to those struggling with the cost-of-living crisis. The pilot primarily targeted low-income people who needed short-term support and could not afford to cook or struggled for various reasons. Supplied by ParsleyBox, the well-balanced, vacuum-packed meals could be stored in a cupboard for up to six months and reheated in a microwave, pot, or oven for ease. Service users could choose their meals as they catered to a variety of dietary requirements and personal preferences.

What difference does it make?

Midlothian’s Reheatable Foods Service had a positive impact on the well-being and mental health of recipients by reducing stress related to buying, collecting, and/or cooking food. It mitigated the effects of the cost-of-living crisis for those who needed short-term, immediate help during a difficult period in their lives. It provided dignified support as recipients were able to choose the meals that were delivered to their doorstep. Feedback and lived experience testimonials demonstrated this positive impact, and a variety of priority groups were supported during the original pilot.

Key take-aways

• Ready-made meal deliveries benefit low-income people who cannot cook with groceries because of a disability, illness, or accommodation crisis, for example.
• Having the opportunity to choose meals that cater to one’s preferences or dietary requirements was seen to increase dignity and the overall well-being of the individual.
• Meal delivery services are optimal for vulnerable individuals experiencing a crisis, such as those fleeing domestic violence or in temporary accommodation.

 

Organisations

Midlothian Council, British Red Cross, Midlothian Cost of Living Taskforce, Communities, Lifelong Learning and Employability (CLLE) Service, ParsleyBox

Location

Midlothian (throughout)

The project was relaunched on 23/10/2023, but is now no longer active.

Contact