0 - The Okehampton Food Bank

Across the UK, many people have noticed that the weekly food shop costs more than it did a year ago. Official figures from the Office for National Statistics show that UK food prices increased by around 4–5% over the past year.

Families on lower incomes spend a larger share of their budget on essentials such as food and energy, which means price increases affect them more strongly than the average household. In addition, cheaper supermarket products have often increased faster than premium brands, meaning poorer shoppers can face higher inflation on the items they actually buy.

However, the real increase for many households in Okehampton and West Devon is likely to be higher.

When other factors are taken into account — including skimpflation, shrinkflation, added water or fillers in products, and the fact that many items used to calculate national inflation are simply unaffordable for poorer households — the real cost of maintaining the same diet may be closer to 7–10% for many families, and sometimes higher for those relying heavily on basic staple foods.

This difference between official statistics and everyday experience helps explain why rising food prices are being felt so strongly in communities like Okehampton.

What Is Skimpflation?

Skimpflation happens when the price of a product stays similar, but the quality or ingredients are reduced.

For example:

A ready meal may contain less meat and more sauce
Drinks may include more water or filler
Recipes may use cheaper ingredients

The price on the shelf may appear the same, but shoppers receive less nutritional value or lower-quality food for their money.

What Is Shrinkflation?

Shrinkflation occurs when the size or quantity of a product becomes smaller while the price stays the same.

For example:

A packet of biscuits may contain fewer biscuits
A chocolate bar may weigh less
A bag of pasta may hold a smaller amount

Because the packaging often looks the same, these changes can be difficult to notice.

Why Rising Food Prices Matter in Okehampton

When food prices rise, skimpflation and shrinkflation occur at the same time, and the real cost of feeding a household can rise faster than official inflation figures suggest.

For families in Okehampton and across West Devon, these pressures can make it harder to afford enough food each week.

At Okehampton Foodbank, we see the impact of rising food prices on local families every day. Many people seeking support are working households, pensioners, or individuals facing unexpected financial difficulties.

Supporting Families in Okehampton

Okehampton Foodbank exists to support people in our community who are experiencing food insecurity.

"Your Contribution Brings Hope and Food to Families!"

If you would like to help, you can:

Donate food items
Make a financial donation
Volunteer your time
Help raise awareness of the foodbank

Community support makes a real difference and helps ensure that everyone in Okehampton has access to food when they need it.

Strengthening Okehampton Food Bank Community Support

Okehampton Food Bank community support has been strengthened over the past year thanks to the generous backing of Okehampton United Charities.

Their funding has enabled us to continue with our dedicated room at the Ockment Centre. As a result, we now have a safe, accessible, and welcoming base for our work. This space helps us respond more quickly and effectively to local families who need help.

Simply put, it has transformed how we operate day to day.

"Donate Today, Nourish a Family in Need!"
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A Safe and Welcoming Space at the Ockment Centre

Because we have a secure base, we can store food safely and organise supplies more efficiently. In turn, distributions run more smoothly and volunteers can focus on supporting people.

At the same time, we’re able to meet clients in private. This ensures conversations remain confidential and respectful.

Most importantly, the room creates a calm and friendly environment. As a result, people feel comfortable, supported, and treated with dignity from the moment they arrive.

More Than Food: Advice and Practical Help

However, food is only part of the support we offer.

Thanks to this dedicated space, advisors from Citizens Advice and Community Links now join us during food bank sessions. Because of this, families can access practical guidance straight away.

They can get help with:

Benefits
Debt and money worries
Housing concerns
Health and wellbeing
Accessing longer-term support

So, alongside emergency food, people receive advice and clear next steps. Together, this joined-up approach provides both immediate relief and the tools they need to move forward with confidence.

The Impact of Community Partnership in Okehampton

Importantly, the support of Okehampton United Charities has strengthened the daily running of the Food Bank. In turn, it has provided reassurance to the many residents who rely on us.

Meanwhile, demand for food support continues to grow across Okehampton and the surrounding area. Because of this, strong partnerships are more important than ever.

Community backing like this doesn’t just help in the short term. Instead, it builds lasting Okehampton Food Bank community support that benefits everyone.

Thank You to Our Supporters

Of course, we couldn’t do this work alone.

We depend on the kindness of local organisations, businesses, volunteers, and residents. Every donation, referral, and hour given makes a real difference.

We’re especially grateful to Okehampton United Charities for recognising the value of our service and helping us continue our work with care, dignity, and compassion.