A social welfare enterprise set up more than 10 years ago to support some of community’s most vulnerable is looking for a new project manager.

The Somer Valley Foodbank, originally established as a collaboration between local churches and community leaders, is nestled under the charitable status of St John’s Church, Peasedown St John.

The foodbank, which runs food distribution centres in Midsomer Norton, Radstock, Paulton and Peasedown St John, has been at the forefront of helping some of the local area’s most needy ever since its doors opened in 2013.

Since 2017, the Foodbank’s operations have been managed by Paul Woodward who has announced his retirement from the role after seven years service.

Paul said: “It’s been a huge joy to manage and lead the Somer Valley Foodbank over all these years.

“I’m particularly grateful to all the volunteers, local businesses, churches and community groups that have supported the Somer Valley Foodbank during my tenure as project manager. Their help and encouragement has enabled us to provide a support and advice service to those that need it the most.

“Now, more than ever before over the last 10 years, there has never been a greater need for the Somer Valley Foodbank’s existence. With the rise in the cost of of living, and more people finding it difficult to make ends meet, we’re seeing an unprecedented demand for the foodbank’s services.”

The Somer Valley Foodbank Project Manager is a voluntary position that oversees the operation of the Somer Valley Foodbank, with concern for its operational efficiency and standards in accordance with The Trussell Trust franchise model. In partnership with the management committee the manager guides the development of the Somer Valley Foodbank, including its material resources, financial assets, reputation, partnerships and volunteer body.

Revd Matthew Street, Vicar of St John’s Church in Peasedown St John, said: “We’re looking for someone who is passionate about making a difference and feels inspired to ‘get stuck in’. The Somer Valley Foodbank has become, thanks to the support of the public, a huge social welfare project with a large number of volunteers.

“The ideal candidate should have good interpersonal skills and administrative skills, have a non-judgemental approach to the clients of the Foodbank, be sympathetic to the causes of food poverty in the UK and be able to motivate and enthuse volunteers.” 

The time commitment expected is around 15 hours per week.

Since January 2013, the Foodbank has fed 23,828 people and distributed over 200 tonnes of food across the Somer Valley. It is part of the Trussell Trust, a Christian Charity that now has over 430 Foodbanks operating throughout the country.

Earlier this month, the Trussell Trust revealed the number of residents using the foodbank in Bath and North East Somerset is up 22 percent compared to five years ago.

Anyone interested in applying for the voluntary role of the Project Manager of the Somer Valley Foodbank can contact Revd Matthew Street by emailing [email protected]