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Find a community meal

Find a meal

Meet our FoodCycle Volunteers

  • March 14, 2022

Here at FoodCycle, our passionate team of volunteers ensure that every week, people in the community can sit down to eat a hot, nutritious meal while sharing a great conversation with friends.  

In order to achieve our goals of connecting local communities, nourishing those that are hungry or in need of, mental health support, inspiring change by promoting sustainability, we need people to help us. Every time a new volunteer signs up, we are one step further to our vision: to make food poverty, loneliness and food waste a thing of the past for every community. 

We think it’s about time you to meet some of our wonderful volunteers and find out a little bit more about why they give up their time to support FoodCycle (and why you should too!) 

 

For Marlon, moving from Belo Horizonte in Brazil to Manchester was a big change and made it vital for him to feel find a connection to his new community. Signing up as a cooking volunteer at was the perfect way to do that.

On his first session in the  Langworthy kitchen Marlon told us, “everybody has been so welcoming so far and I love the idea that something I’ve cooked might have made somebody’s day. Volunteering in the evenings fits great around my work schedule, so I’ll definitely be back!”

 

For Louisa, volunteering for FoodCycle Langworthy initially about learning to cook, she says:

“If you can peel a potato, chop a carrot or wash a dish, then you have the skills you need to be a cooking volunteer.”

Now a Hosting Project Leader (with excellent goulash making skills), Louisa serves her community every week and has put in 273 volunteer hours so far.

How could we possibly say thank you?

 

Well-known in the North East for his extravagant cooking skills, fantastic relationship building, and bringing his dog Stella to the projects, JP is one of our long serving volunteers.

Putting in an incredible 328 hours over 2 years JP is passionate about the work FoodCycle does, and it really shows.

JP really goes above and beyond with his volunteering. From working closely with his local cheese stall to get donations to visiting the local knife shop to get the projects knives sharpened, there is really no stopping JP and his passion for what we do.

Knowing that the work he puts in helps so many people is really what drives JP and we are so happy that he continues to give so much to FoodCycle, his team and his community.

 

FoodCycle’s approach to sustainability, by changing attitudes to food and society’s impact on the environment by cooking with surplus ingredients, is what really drew Emily to FoodCycle.

It’s hard to believe that all of the tasty meals we serve are made with food that would have otherwise gone to waste. Lots of our volunteers join us because they are passionate about sustainability (and stay because of the delicious meals!)

When the surplus ingredients arrive at the project it’s all hands on deck to come up with a suitable recipe for the evening. When we visited Emily at our Levenshulme Project, the team had taken cous cous, spices and fresh vegetables to whip up a delicious and nutritious tagine!

Without volunteers like Emily to come up with creative recipes and cook our nutritious meals, we wouldn’t have been able to save 359 tonnes of food last year!

 

In robin’s case, lockdown had left him feeling a bit lonely. Living on his own, he wanted  a way to meet some new people and have chat.

Robin told us ‘after a session with FoodCycle Clacton, I feel like I have done some good for the local community, plus I always feel like I have done a four-hour intensive work out!’

‘I’m so glad I decided to help out, I know it’s a small thing I do but I feel like, I’m more a part of my community in Clacton’

Giving up your time to help other people is not a small thing, Robin! Here at FoodCycle we appreciate how much time and effort our volunteers put into their work and we are so grateful.

Feeling inspired? Sign up to volunteer now!  

 

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Meet Nathan, a cooking volunteer at FoodCycle...

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Open post by foodcyclehq with ID 18071034962025117
Meet Nathan, a cooking volunteer at FoodCycle Hucknall and Broxtowe-Aspley in Nottinghamshire.

At 44, Nathan was looking to shake off the routine of work and do something more fulfilling with his time. He joined FoodCycle to give back, but found much more than he expected – growing in confidence, building new skills and rediscovering his passion for cooking.

Volunteering has even inspired a new career, as Nathan recently became a volunteer co-ordinator for his local council.

We love hearing how FoodCycle makes a difference not just for guests, but for our incredible volunteers too.

Join us and make a real difference in your community.

#Nottingham #community #communitymeal #freemeal #volunteering #Hucknall #BroxtoweAspley

Halfway there, Harry! 🏃‍♂️🔥

Huge shoutout
...

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Halfway there, Harry! 🏃‍♂️🔥

Huge shoutout to Harry Barham who recently completed his 5th half marathon in his epic challenge to run 10 half marathons in support of FoodCycle and FareShare North East – that’s 131 miles in total!

His most recent run was a scorcher, but Harry powered through with determination and a whole lot of heart.

He’s running to help tackle food waste, food poverty and support stronger communities and he’s already halfway to the finish line.

Let’s cheer him on and help him hit that fundraising goal 💚
Donate here at giveasyoulive.com and search "harry runs 25"

#HarryRuns25 #fundraising #halfmarathon #foodcycle #communitymeals

FoodCycle has given me a great sense of purpose.”...

17 0
Open post by foodcyclehq with ID 18051650228614992
FoodCycle has given me a great sense of purpose.” 💚

Meet Rosie, a 73-year-old volunteer from Worcester who joined FoodCycle to give back in her retirement, and found so much more.

From building confidence in the kitchen to making new friends, Rosie says volunteering has become a meaningful and joyful part of her week.

“I really enjoy every session. I can’t always go weekly, but FoodCycle is so flexible – you just sign up when you can. I tell everyone I know about it!”

Thank you, Rosie, for being such a valued part of the FoodCycle family.

Head to the link in the bio to join us.

#summervolunteers #foodcycle #communitymeal #fightfoodwaste #volunteering #worcester

Friendships that go beyond the kitchen 💚
...

50 0
Open post by foodcyclehq with ID 18060514409209479
Friendships that go beyond the kitchen 💚

We absolutely loved seeing this update from our brilliant Clacton volunteers, who spent a sunny evening in Frinton enjoying a walking quiz, fish and chips, and plenty of laughs!

Sixteen of the team came together for a bit of friendly competition and fun, followed by a delicious beach hut supper and lots of chat about FoodCycle with curious passers-by.

Moments like these show just how strong the sense of community is among our volunteers. It’s more than just cooking and serving meals, it’s about connection, friendship and supporting one another.

Thank you to everyone who made the evening so special. We’re lucky to have such a wonderful Clacton crew!

#Foodcycle #Clacton #FoodWaste #Frinton #Community #MakingFriends

Not all heroes wear capes, some rock an apron and...

52 1
Open post by foodcyclehq with ID 18121146427421273
Not all heroes wear capes, some rock an apron and hairnet and whip up a mean pasta bake...

Join our volunteer team and help cook, serve or simply lend a hand. Whether it’s chopping veggies, plating up meals or washing up, it all makes a difference.

Join us for a Summer of Peas & Love. 🫛❤️

Do good, feel good, volunteer with us this summer. 

Head to the link in the bio to register and have the best summer ever. 

#SummerGoals #SummerVolunteers #Community #CommunityKitchen #FreeMeal #FoodCycle

Say hello to Meiling & Linda, the two amazing...

8 0
Open post by foodcyclehq with ID 17912425917053678
Say hello to Meiling & Linda, the two amazing runners representing FoodCycle in the 2026 London Marathon!

🧡 Meiling is a seasoned marathon runner and Milton Keynes volunteer
💚 Linda is taking on her very first 26.2 miles after supporting us through her workplace

Both are passionate about raising funds to fight food waste, food poverty and loneliness, and we’re so excited to have them on Team FoodCycle!

Over the next year, we’ll be cheering them on and sharing updates as they train, fundraise and take on this iconic challenge.

💬 Drop them a good luck message below
📣 Follow for updates
🫛 Feeling inspired? Take on your own challenge for FoodCycle! 

#LondonMarathon2026 #TeamFoodCycle #MarathonTraining #CharityChallenge

Huge congratulations to Carly and her brother...

42 0
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Huge congratulations to Carly and her brother Liam, who took on a 2km open water swim at Rutland Water to raise funds for FoodCycle and smashed it! (We think there was a little bit of sibling rivalry at play)

We’re incredibly proud of Carly, who lives and breathes FoodCycle in every way. She’s been part of our team for 5 years and knows just how powerful our meals can be. For some, it’s the only cooked meal they’ll have that week, and the only chance to connect with others.

This swim, taken in memory of their dad, has raised over £1,200 to help tackle food waste, food poverty and loneliness.

👏 Well done Carly and Liam
👏 Thank you to everyone who has donated so far
💚 Every penny makes a difference

If you're planning a fundraising event for FoodCycle, we'd love to hear about it! 

#foodcycle #rutlandwater #Swimming #communitymeal #fightfoodwaste #sustainable #fundraising #justgiving

Leftover courgettes languishing in the fridge?
...

7 0
Open post by foodcyclehq with ID 18065750593951299
Leftover courgettes languishing in the fridge?

Try this no-waste courgette recipe for your next BBQ. 

Get the full recipe in the bio. 

#Courgette #CourgetteDip #DipRecipe

Serving food, saving waste, and spreading kindness...

27 1
Open post by foodcyclehq with ID 18538204495032504
Serving food, saving waste, and spreading kindness 🫛❤️

This summer, we need more amazing people like Sue to help us cook, serve and connect with communities across the country.

Whether you're a kitchen whizz or just keen to lend a hand, every session makes a difference.

Join us for a summer full of purpose, people and peas.

Sign up to volunteer today.

#summervolunteers #volunteering #fightfoodwaste

Make courgettes the star of the show 🌟
...

7 0
Open post by foodcyclehq with ID 18161559001365026
Make courgettes the star of the show 🌟

What would you dip in this?

Maybe some 🥕
or some sticks of 🥒

Tell us below! 
-----------------
Ingredients

500g Greek yoghurt
1 courgette(s) (boiled and cooled)
1 garlic clove(s) (crushed)
1 bunch(es) of fresh dill (chopped)
0.5 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp red wine vinegar
1 handful(s) of olives
1 tsp olive oil

Method
Mix the yoghurt, courgette (finely chopped), garlic, dill, oregano and red wine vinegar together in a bowl.

Make a dip with the back of the spoon in the middle of the bowl and fill with olive oil.

Garnish with olives if you’ve got them to hand.

Serve with flatbreads/pitta bread.

#Tzatziki #courgette #courgetterecipe #partydip #diprecipe #homemadedip

Meet Nathan, a cooking volunteer at FoodCycle...

32 0
Open post by foodcyclehq with ID 18071034962025117
Meet Nathan, a cooking volunteer at FoodCycle Hucknall and Broxtowe-Aspley in Nottinghamshire.

At 44, Nathan was looking to shake off the routine of work and do something more fulfilling with his time. He joined FoodCycle to give back, but found much more than he expected – growing in confidence, building new skills and rediscovering his passion for cooking.

Volunteering has even inspired a new career, as Nathan recently became a volunteer co-ordinator for his local council.

We love hearing how FoodCycle makes a difference not just for guests, but for our incredible volunteers too.

Join us and make a real difference in your community.

#Nottingham #community #communitymeal #freemeal #volunteering #Hucknall #BroxtoweAspley

Halfway there, Harry! 🏃‍♂️🔥

Huge shoutout
...

36 0
Open post by foodcyclehq with ID 17894630658147165
Halfway there, Harry! 🏃‍♂️🔥

Huge shoutout to Harry Barham who recently completed his 5th half marathon in his epic challenge to run 10 half marathons in support of FoodCycle and FareShare North East – that’s 131 miles in total!

His most recent run was a scorcher, but Harry powered through with determination and a whole lot of heart.

He’s running to help tackle food waste, food poverty and support stronger communities and he’s already halfway to the finish line.

Let’s cheer him on and help him hit that fundraising goal 💚
Donate here at giveasyoulive.com and search "harry runs 25"

#HarryRuns25 #fundraising #halfmarathon #foodcycle #communitymeals

FoodCycle has given me a great sense of purpose.”...

17 0
Open post by foodcyclehq with ID 18051650228614992
FoodCycle has given me a great sense of purpose.” 💚

Meet Rosie, a 73-year-old volunteer from Worcester who joined FoodCycle to give back in her retirement, and found so much more.

From building confidence in the kitchen to making new friends, Rosie says volunteering has become a meaningful and joyful part of her week.

“I really enjoy every session. I can’t always go weekly, but FoodCycle is so flexible – you just sign up when you can. I tell everyone I know about it!”

Thank you, Rosie, for being such a valued part of the FoodCycle family.

Head to the link in the bio to join us.

#summervolunteers #foodcycle #communitymeal #fightfoodwaste #volunteering #worcester

Friendships that go beyond the kitchen 💚
...

50 0
Open post by foodcyclehq with ID 18060514409209479
Friendships that go beyond the kitchen 💚

We absolutely loved seeing this update from our brilliant Clacton volunteers, who spent a sunny evening in Frinton enjoying a walking quiz, fish and chips, and plenty of laughs!

Sixteen of the team came together for a bit of friendly competition and fun, followed by a delicious beach hut supper and lots of chat about FoodCycle with curious passers-by.

Moments like these show just how strong the sense of community is among our volunteers. It’s more than just cooking and serving meals, it’s about connection, friendship and supporting one another.

Thank you to everyone who made the evening so special. We’re lucky to have such a wonderful Clacton crew!

#Foodcycle #Clacton #FoodWaste #Frinton #Community #MakingFriends

Not all heroes wear capes, some rock an apron and...

52 1
Open post by foodcyclehq with ID 18121146427421273
Not all heroes wear capes, some rock an apron and hairnet and whip up a mean pasta bake...

Join our volunteer team and help cook, serve or simply lend a hand. Whether it’s chopping veggies, plating up meals or washing up, it all makes a difference.

Join us for a Summer of Peas & Love. 🫛❤️

Do good, feel good, volunteer with us this summer. 

Head to the link in the bio to register and have the best summer ever. 

#SummerGoals #SummerVolunteers #Community #CommunityKitchen #FreeMeal #FoodCycle

Say hello to Meiling & Linda, the two amazing...

8 0
Open post by foodcyclehq with ID 17912425917053678
Say hello to Meiling & Linda, the two amazing runners representing FoodCycle in the 2026 London Marathon!

🧡 Meiling is a seasoned marathon runner and Milton Keynes volunteer
💚 Linda is taking on her very first 26.2 miles after supporting us through her workplace

Both are passionate about raising funds to fight food waste, food poverty and loneliness, and we’re so excited to have them on Team FoodCycle!

Over the next year, we’ll be cheering them on and sharing updates as they train, fundraise and take on this iconic challenge.

💬 Drop them a good luck message below
📣 Follow for updates
🫛 Feeling inspired? Take on your own challenge for FoodCycle! 

#LondonMarathon2026 #TeamFoodCycle #MarathonTraining #CharityChallenge

Huge congratulations to Carly and her brother...

42 0
Open post by foodcyclehq with ID 17941728006030016
Huge congratulations to Carly and her brother Liam, who took on a 2km open water swim at Rutland Water to raise funds for FoodCycle and smashed it! (We think there was a little bit of sibling rivalry at play)

We’re incredibly proud of Carly, who lives and breathes FoodCycle in every way. She’s been part of our team for 5 years and knows just how powerful our meals can be. For some, it’s the only cooked meal they’ll have that week, and the only chance to connect with others.

This swim, taken in memory of their dad, has raised over £1,200 to help tackle food waste, food poverty and loneliness.

👏 Well done Carly and Liam
👏 Thank you to everyone who has donated so far
💚 Every penny makes a difference

If you're planning a fundraising event for FoodCycle, we'd love to hear about it! 

#foodcycle #rutlandwater #Swimming #communitymeal #fightfoodwaste #sustainable #fundraising #justgiving

Leftover courgettes languishing in the fridge?
...

7 0
Open post by foodcyclehq with ID 18065750593951299
Leftover courgettes languishing in the fridge?

Try this no-waste courgette recipe for your next BBQ. 

Get the full recipe in the bio. 

#Courgette #CourgetteDip #DipRecipe

Serving food, saving waste, and spreading kindness...

27 1
Open post by foodcyclehq with ID 18538204495032504
Serving food, saving waste, and spreading kindness 🫛❤️

This summer, we need more amazing people like Sue to help us cook, serve and connect with communities across the country.

Whether you're a kitchen whizz or just keen to lend a hand, every session makes a difference.

Join us for a summer full of purpose, people and peas.

Sign up to volunteer today.

#summervolunteers #volunteering #fightfoodwaste

Make courgettes the star of the show 🌟
...

7 0
Open post by foodcyclehq with ID 18161559001365026
Make courgettes the star of the show 🌟

What would you dip in this?

Maybe some 🥕
or some sticks of 🥒

Tell us below! 
-----------------
Ingredients

500g Greek yoghurt
1 courgette(s) (boiled and cooled)
1 garlic clove(s) (crushed)
1 bunch(es) of fresh dill (chopped)
0.5 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp red wine vinegar
1 handful(s) of olives
1 tsp olive oil

Method
Mix the yoghurt, courgette (finely chopped), garlic, dill, oregano and red wine vinegar together in a bowl.

Make a dip with the back of the spoon in the middle of the bowl and fill with olive oil.

Garnish with olives if you’ve got them to hand.

Serve with flatbreads/pitta bread.

#Tzatziki #courgette #courgetterecipe #partydip #diprecipe #homemadedip
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    New Covent Garden Market
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  • 2.16, The Food Exchange
    New Covent Garden Market
    London, SW8 5EL
  • t: 020 7729 2775
  • e: hello@foodcycle.org.uk

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Company limited by guarantee no. 7101349

Website by me&you

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