Issue - meetings

The Housing Options Manager (Stockport Homes) will attend the meeting to provide an update to the Committee on their activities in the area.

Joanne Claridge (Stockport Homes) attended the meeting and provided an overview on The Pantry network and their involvement in the Brinnington area.

The following comments were made/issues raised:-

·         The Pantry was set up by Stockport Homes to offer local residents affordable shopping, healthier options and employment experience;

·         The Pantry was set up like a shop with colour coding category restrictions, and guaranteed users 10 items for £2.50 a week;

·         Stockport Homes monitored the need for help and could offer qualifications and training;

·         Stockport Homes were offering to franchise pantries to local groups if there was a need in a particular area;

·         There were 150 memberships and any resident within the catchment area could apply to be a member, however those outside the catchment needed a referral to identify their need;

·         There had been reports of residents feeling stigmatised using The Pantry, however it was felt that that stigma was felt more around foodbanks.

RESOLVED – That Joanne be thanked for her attendance.