Why we are closing our Foodbank services
Over the past few months, we’ve been carrying out a comprehensive strategic review of our work. This process has helped us take a step back and look closely at where we can make the greatest positive impact for the people and communities we exist to support.
As part of this review, we have made the difficult decision to close the foodbanks we currently operate.
This was not an easy choice. We know how important food support is to many individuals and families across our communities, and we are incredibly grateful to everyone who has supported the foodbanks over the years – from volunteers and donors to partners and referral agencies.
However, the review made it clear that running foodbanks is no longer aligned with our core mission: to support people with experience of the justice system to overcome barriers, realise their potential, and positively engage with society. To build a future beyond their past. To give this mission our full focus, we need to ensure our time, skills and resources are invested in the services where we can have the greatest long-term impact.
Supporting people through the transition
While the foodbanks will be closing, our commitment to the people who use them remains strong. We’re taking a careful, person-centred approach to the transition by:
- Contacting everyone who currently accesses our foodbanks to make sure they have clear information and support
- Working closely with local partners to signpost people to alternative food support and community resources
- Ensuring that no one is left without guidance during this change.
We are also supporting our dedicated volunteers and staff, who have given so much to the foodbank service. Their contribution has made a real difference, and we are grateful for their compassion and commitment.
Remaining true to our mission
Closing the foodbanks does not mean we’re reducing our services. In fact, refocusing our work will allow us to strengthen and expand the support we provide to people with experience of the justice system. This includes providing guidance and advocacy, skills development and person-centred support and enabling individuals to take control of their futures and contribute meaningfully to their families, workplaces and communities.
By aligning our resources with our mission, we are ensuring that we continue to deliver meaningful, long-term change to empower someone to have a future beyond their past.
Thank you
We want to extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who has contributed to the foodbank service – whether by volunteering time, donating, partnering with us or spreading the word. Your support has helped countless people through moments of real hardship.
If you have any questions or would like to speak to us about this change, please contact Emma Wilson our Director of Services and Programmes at emma.wilson@apexscotland.org.uk or Mhairi Ross our Operations Service Manager at Mhairi.ross@apexscotland.org.uk
Frequently asked questions
1. Why are you closing your foodbanks?
Following a comprehensive strategic review, we concluded that operating foodbanks is no longer aligned with our core mission of supporting people with experience of the justice system to have a future beyond their past. To maximise our impact and use our resources effectively, we are refocusing on services that directly contribute to this goal.
2. When will the foodbanks close?
The Dumfries foodbanks will close by the end of March. We’re managing the closure carefully to ensure service users, staff, volunteers and partners have clear information and adequate time to prepare.
3. How will you support people who currently use the foodbanks?
We are working directly with individuals accessing the foodbanks to ensure they are aware of the changes and are supported to access alternative sources of food support. We are also collaborating with local partners, especially The Trussell Trust to provide up-to-date information on available community resources.
4. What alternative support is available locally?
We are compiling a list of local foodbanks, community pantries, welfare support services and other organisations offering food provision. This information will be shared with service users and partners throughout the transition. If you require a copy, please contact us.
5. What will happen to volunteers involved in the foodbanks?
Volunteers are being contacted directly and informed about the closure. We’re offering them support, thanking them for their contribution, and signposting those who wish to continue volunteering in food support to local organisations.
6. How does this decision affect your staff?
Staff connected to the foodbank operations have been informed, and we’re working with them through the change process in line with our HR policies. We remain committed to supporting them throughout this transition.
7. What will happen to the food and equipment currently held in the foodbanks?
We will work with local partners to ensure remaining food stock and equipment are redistributed responsibly within the community, supporting organisations that continue to deliver food provision.
8. Are you facing financial difficulties?
As with every charity in this current climate, we continue to monitor and manage our funds carefully and in alignment with our mission. The decision to no longer operate foodbanks is a strategic choice to ensure our work remains focused on areas where we can create the greatest long-term impact in line with our mission and use our resources wisely.
9. Does this mean you are reducing your overall services?
We remain fully committed to our core work supporting people with experience of the justice system. This change allows us to strengthen and expand services that directly support this mission.
10. Who can I speak to for more information?
For further information or to discuss this change, please contact Emma Wilson our Director of Services and Programmes at emma.wilson@apexscotland.org.uk or Mhairi Ross our Operational Service Manager at Mhairi.ross@apexscotland.org.uk