We are currently developing a community supermarket model to improve access to affordable, nutritious food in local communities.
Community supermarkets are membership-based shops that provide affordable food to households experiencing financial pressure.
Members can buy food at significantly reduced prices while accessing wraparound support services, such as budgeting advice, employment help, and wellbeing services.
This approach is about more than providing food. It is designed to support longer-term financial resilience and reduce reliance on emergency food aid such as foodbanks. The aim is to provide people with more choice and dignity in how they access food and support.
Food mapping
The first stage of this project involved mapping community food support across the county and developing an online Community Food Map.
Developed with community partners, this map makes it easier for people to find support and shows a clear picture of the food support system in Gloucestershire.
Collaborative work
This project is supported by a county-wide working group, bringing together representatives from each district in Gloucestershire.
Together the group shares insights, helps shape recommendations for the model, and provides strategic oversight to make sure the project is relevant for all areas of our county.
Research
We are working with a selection of food banks and pantries in each district to better understand their operations, challenges and support needs. This includes surveying staff, volunteers, and members, and mapping this into the Food Ladders model.
This research will help identify potential supermarket pilot areas and shape the development of a Gloucestershire Community Supermarket Model.
Best-practice toolkits
We are developing a ‘best-practice’ toolkit that includes training materials and resources. This will support the development of community supermarkets across the county, and help new and existing projects deliver sustainable community food provision.
