This month’s blog is written by Banstead Pantry Steering Group member, Sharon. Pantry Steering groups are made up of volunteers and members who work together to shape the development of Pantries. Photo: volunteers at Banstead Pantry
When I was asked if I would like to the join the Banstead Pantry Steering Committee, there was no hesitation. I found Banstead Pantry at a time in my life that was extremely difficult. To say that Banstead Pantry offered me a life line is an understatement.
Yes, Banstead Pantry is a place where members can choose the food they need at an affordable price. But, Banstead Pantry offers so much more. From help with debt counselling and council tax, advice for benefit claims, through to new born starter packs and even cooking lessons! But most importantly, Banstead Pantry is a community that works within the local community, it is a real life line, it is a place where you can be yourself regardless of background and situation.
Members may come and go, but one thing remains a constant. Banstead Pantry is a safe, warm and non-judgemental environment that offers so much for so little. A place of understanding, a place that knows how to help. A place that allows you to sit and chat over a cuppa, a place that really helps to make lives better. And of course, the basics to live.
That is why I was very happy to become a member of the Banstead Pantry Steering Committee. It is a privilege to be able to give back in some small way for the support that the Banstead Pantry has given and continues to give me.
Being a member of the Banstead Pantry Steering Committee has helped me tremendously. Having lost so much, it has given me some purpose whilst navigating a really difficult time in my life. It makes me feel less isolated and it makes me feel like I do have something to offer and that, more importantly, I can say thank you. It has allowed me to meet some lovely people, to learn from them and share ideas that will help shape the future and direction of the Pantry. Knowing that our ideas may help others is humbling.
It reminds me that huge gestures are not required and throwing money at something is not the only way (although it helps!). Being able to offer time, experiences, thoughts and ideas, and being present all help. A little can really go a long way. Sharing is caring! It reminds me that so many have their own challenges to confront and manage, through no fault of their own and I am not alone. A few kind words work wonders.
It has reminded me that although life can seem scary and impossible there is help and there is no shame in needing a helping hand. Remember, we are all individuals and we all have something to offer. If you are asked to join the Banstead Steering Committee, or other Committee or group, go for it. Being able to help is so rewarding and it gives you so much in return that you would never have expected.
‘How to’ involve people in a Steering Group at your organisation:
- Decide how many members you need.
- Agree the sort of commitment you are looking for, e.g. how frequently do they need to attend meetings and/or events.
- Are you looking for a variety of skills, experience and background from your members?
- Would your members be rewarded for taking part, e.g. ‘thank you’ vouchers?
- Plan how you will run the meetings, where and when they would be held, e.g. will you have an agenda or will you keep it loose so that members can come to the meetings with their ideas and suggestions.
- Decide how you will recruit members of the Steering Group. You might want to produce an ‘Opportunity Description’ with the details above contained within it so people can decide if it might be something they want to get involved with.
- Begin your meetings to benefit from gaining insights from people with lived experience and help shape your services.
Further Resources
If you want to know more about participation activities at Good Company, you can contact us via email: voice@goodcompany.org.uk or find further resources on our website here – End Poverty Pledge Resources – Good Company.
