Ashley, Banstead Pantry Manager, writes about our most recent Pantry Impact report
We’re pleased to share Banstead Pantry’s latest Impact Report, which highlights the difference it has made to members since the Pantry opened its doors on Banstead High Street 18 months ago. To see how our members are faring, we conducted a follow-up survey modelled after our previous six-month evaluation, and our 6-month, 18 month and 3-year evaluations of Epsom Pantry. This helps us to understand how member circumstances at both Pantries are changing over time.
We are happy to share positive progress across all four of our core focus areas: Financial Resilience, Food Security, Skill-Sharing, and Community Building.
Key Highlights:
- Easing Financial Pressure: The proportion of members finding it ‘difficult’ or ‘very difficult’ to get by decreased significantly from 70% in 2025 to 40% in 2026.
- Household Savings: Together, Pantry members have made over £155,000 in savings over the last 12 months.
- Better Health and Wellbeing: Members report eating more fresh fruit and vegetables and feeling less anxious about feeding their families.
- Stronger Local Connections: 73% of members feel more connected to their local community, and nearly 70% took part in the savings scheme in the past year.
When asked what they value most, members consistently mentioned the food, the community environment and the savings.
“The community at the Pantry is a huge asset to all members. It helps us fill our cupboards with healthy food and gives us contact with other people, which is really lovely. The staff are excellent and very welcoming!”
“It made a huge difference on my financial struggles. I am managing to sort out other debts because I don’t have to spend so much money on basic essentials. I feel great when I go there as everyone is so nice and warm.”
These results closely mirror what we saw at Epsom Pantry at the same milestone, confirming that this model genuinely helps build long-term resilience. Thank you to everyone in our community who supports our work. Together, we are taking meaningful steps toward ending local poverty and ensuring everyone can afford life’s essentials.
