Manchester Central Food Bank supports people across some of the city’s most diverse neighbourhoods, as rising living costs push more households into crisis. Strategic Development Lead Ben Warner shares how food aid has changed, why digital access matters, and how Bankuet helps ensure people receive a complete food parcel when they need it most.

Supporting communities across central Manchester

Manchester Central Food Bank covers a large area across central, east, and north Manchester. “These neighbourhoods are incredibly diverse,” says Ben Warner, Strategic Development Lead. “They each have their own strengths and character, but also very different challenges.”

Over the last 20–30 years, some areas have seen significant investment, while others have not. “We’re here to support anyone who needs us, wherever they are in the city,” Ben explains.

Who the food bank supports today

There’s no single profile of someone accessing the food bank. “We support people from many different communities and walks of life,” Ben says. “We’re really proud that we’ve created a space where people feel comfortable coming in, getting food, and having a conversation.”

Reaching the point of needing a food bank can be difficult. “For many people, it’s not an easy step. Creating a welcoming environment — where people feel respected and supported — is something our volunteers and staff care deeply about.”

Rising need across the city

Like food banks across the UK, Manchester Central has seen demand increase significantly.

“We’re seeing more people coming to food banks for the first time,” Ben explains. “From all backgrounds. That tells us the pressure people are under is growing.”

At the same time, the wider cost-of-living crisis has made the work harder. “Inflation affects everyone. That means donations have gone down, while the need for food aid has gone up — and that’s the biggest challenge we face.”

What’s needed (and what’s not)

Many donations reflect what people traditionally associate with food banks. “We receive a lot of tinned soup and pasta, which we’re very grateful for,” Ben says. “They go into parcels every day, but they’re also the items we tend to have the most of.”

Looking at Bankuet data, Manchester Central’s most requested items include UHT milk, tinned tomatoes, pasta sauce, and tinned tuna.  “These are all staples,” Ben explains. “They allow people to make a proper meal — pasta sauce with pasta or rice, tinned fish across many cultures, and milk as an essential throughout the day.”

Some items are harder to come by. “The things we often receive least of are the more expensive items — tinned meat, for example. They cost more to donate, but they’re incredibly valuable for families.”

Beyond food: tackling digital exclusion

Food insecurity is rarely the only issue people face. “The digital divide is a huge problem,” Ben says. “The cost of phones, laptops, broadband, and SIM cards keeps rising — and digital access is no longer optional.”

People need internet access to apply for benefits, update Universal Credit journals, access healthcare, and stay connected with friends and family. “Without it, people — especially older adults — risk becoming socially isolated as well as digitally excluded.”

Manchester Central Food Bank has been working to improve digital inclusion, supporting people with access to SIM cards and signposting to wider help.

How Bankuet helps fill the gaps

Bankuet plays a vital role in making sure donations turn into the food people actually need. “When people donate in supermarkets, we’re always grateful,” Ben says. “But what’s donated might not be what we urgently need that week.”

Bankuet allows the food bank to be more targeted. “It helps us focus on the specific items we’re short of, so we can provide a complete, balanced food parcel for everyone.”

The new ordering system has been a big step forward. “It gives us clear data on quantities and costs, which helps us be more efficient and sustainable while meeting rising demand.”

A holistic approach to support

Manchester Central Food Bank aims to do more than provide emergency food. “We try to give people a holistic journey,” Ben explains. “That means food, but also access to advice and wider support.”

The food bank works closely with Citizens Advice Manchester, helping people check they’re receiving their full entitlements and linking them to additional services. “It’s about having a lasting impact for people and their families, not just a short-term fix.”

Why continued support matters

Despite hopes for long-term change, the need for food banks hasn’t disappeared. “People are still struggling to afford food, heating, and the basics,” Ben says. “While we push for more sustainable solutions, charities like ours will continue to support people — many of whom are turning to a food bank for the first time.”

Regular support makes a real difference. “Monthly donations, especially through Bankuet, give us some security and help us plan ahead.”

How you can help

One of the easiest ways to support Manchester Central Food Bank is by donating through Bankuet. Your donation is turned directly into the food and essentials the food bank needs most — exactly when they need them.

“We’re incredibly grateful for the support of our community,” Ben says. “From staff, volunteers, and trustees — thank you. Your generosity helps us support people when they need it most.”