Last month saw the launch of an important resource for Plymouth communities, in the form of the Worrying About Money? leaflet, created by a coalition of organisations working together to take a Cash First approach to fodd insecurity in Plymouth which included the Independent Food Aid Network, Plymouth Food Aid Network, The Trussell Trust and Citizens Advice Plymouth.
Launched on 15 October, Plymouth’s Worrying About Money? cash first referral leaflets are co-designed as straightforward resources for people facing financial crisis, and anyone supporting them, to quickly see available advice and cash first support options and which local agencies are best placed to help.The city has joined 34 other places across the UK who have created a similar resource specific to their own local context.
What is a Cash First approach and why does it matter?
The aim of a Cash First approach is to reduce the need for emergency food aid by helping people access any existing financial entitlements and advice on income maximisation as a cash first response to food insecurity.
Here’s what the Independent Food Aid Network have to say:
IFAN’s Cash First Project involves promoting a cash first response food insecurity principally through the co-development and circulation of cash first referral leaflets but also extends to the promotion of the payment of a Real Living Wage at a local level and to advocating for a cash first approach to food insecurity at a national level. The benefits of a cash first, rather than a food aid first, approach to financial crisis and food insecurity are well-documented. You can access resources on using a cash first approach at a local level as well as overseas here.
This infographic from IFAN sets out how a Cash First approach is vital in moving away from a ‘left over food’ for ‘left over people’ scenario in future.
What does the leaflet cover and who is it for?
The leaflet is for anyone in Plymouth who may be facing worries about their financial situation. It lists three easy-to-follow steps to find options and places to get help, including for migrants, asylum seekers and refugees.
How can I access the leaflet and more information about it?
It is available online for all here and can also be ordered in paper form for free via this online form for organisations who would like to stock it. You can find a recording of the resource launch event here on the Plymouth Food Aid Network website.
Please do share this important resource widely across your own networks and communities.
Finally, a huge thank you goes to all who have been involved in the creation and distribution of the leaflet, and in particular to colleagues at the Plymouth Food Aid Network, the Independent Food Aid Network, The Trussell Trust and Citizens Advice Plymouth