Photo credit:  Reigate and Banstead Borough Council.  Photo shows Councillor Richard Biggs with Jonathan Lees, Good Company Managing Director at the Banstead Pantry launch event.

A community initiative in Banstead that offers affordable, healthy food has celebrated its opening with a launch event. 

The Banstead Pantry is part of the national Your Local Pantry network and has been jointly funded by Reigate and Banstead Borough Council, Good Company, and Raven Housing Trust together with some government funding.

Residents can apply to be members of the Pantry or referrals can be made by partners such as the Council and local food banks.  Membership is not means tested but aims to support those who may be struggling with the cost of living.  It also serves as a community hub offering workshops and social activities. 

The initiative already has a team of 20 volunteers and over 70 households currently holding membership.