Lived Experience Partners
Taff-Ely Foodbank recognises the importance of involving people with lived experience to help us improve our service, counter the stigma surrounding foodbanks and campaign to end the need for foodbanks.
The voices of people with lived experience are vital in shaping the work we do at Taff-Ely Foodbank. The voices of people with lived experience are vital in shaping the work we do at Taff-Ely Foodbank. The stories, experiences, and ideas of people who have used our services help counter the stigma surrounding foodbanks, and ensure the support we offer is as effective as possible.
In October 2025, we formed a lived experience group made up of local people who have faced hardship. This group meets regularly to discuss the issues facing local people facing hardship and to help shape the services our foodbank offers.
Real Stories
Some names have been changed to protect our lived experience partners' identities.
Paula's story
"I've worked all my life and never thought I'd be in a position where I had to turn to a foodbank. Then, in 2022, I became a single mother after leaving an abusive relationship. I moved to a new area where I did not know anyone, into a flat with no furniture, and struggled to keep food on the table while also paying bills. I also accrued a lot of debt after I had to give up work following a cancer diagnosis, so I had to pay that back as well. That left nothing in the pot for food."
"My daughter has been diagnosed with autism after years of waiting - she's my priority and has specific dietary requirements, so I had to turn to the foodbank. I didn't realise they offered so much more than food - the support manager, Charmaine, listened to me and helped me through everything. She told me I was eligible for DLA and have been for five years, but no one told me! I was able to get advice and support for the issues I was facing, and appreciated having somewhere where I could feel relaxed and listened to. We still have our bumpy periods, but my daughter and I are in a much more stable position now, and the support of the foodbank has been essential in that."
Craig's story
“I’ve stood in the queue for a foodbank, I've felt ashamed and seen the stigma. I’d never imagined I’d have to stand in a foodbank queue, not as a community councillor and not as someone who has worked for the NHS."
“When I had to turn to a foodbank, it was one of the most undignified moments of my life. I didn’t know where the money was going – I was budgeting, cutting back, doing everything right, but it still wasn’t enough. I felt ashamed, confused, and invisible, and the stigma was suffocating. It made it clear that society views addiction, poverty, and mental health the wrong way. I’ve been through rehabilitation and am now four years sober, have battled mental health challenges and various other struggles, and I’ve come out on the other side stronger, more compassionate, and more determined to speak up for those still fighting.”
“But I know how hard it is; how easy it is for people to fall through the cracks, and how hard the stigma is, especially when you’re trying to do better. Using a foodbank didn’t make me weak: it made me aware.”
Rob's story
"I was a self-employed taxi driver before the pandemic. When the pandemic arrived and everything went into lockdown, it massively impacted my business. My work vehicle suffered as it wasnt being used and eventually died. I was able to access some grants but it wasn't enough to purchase a new vehicle or fix my old one, and ithout a work vehicle I was left without income."
"Eventually I had to sign on to Universal Credit and began doing courses, but it wasnt enough to cover the essentials. Eventually, I turned to the foodbank for support - I felt a little uneasy going there but they were all really lovely people. They offered me lots of support that I didn't even know existed, and although my situation isnt perfect, wthout the support it would be much worse."
Dione's story
"Being under 25 and on Universal Credit means it's very hard to make ends meet. I am disabled, so working is not an option for me. The rising costs of essentials like groceries and utility bills mean that I tend to go without things like food to last until my next payment day."
"It can feel embarrassing to admit to needing help, but the people at the foodbank help ease any worries I have. I did get the support and an amazing bacon butty that I needed during these dark days."
Lived Experience Panel
Bringing together people with lived experience to discuss the issues facing local people and families is vital in ensuring we can offer effective support. Our lived experience panel meets regularly and plays a key role in shaping the foodbank's services and fighting stigma.