Jemma Strachan, Operations and Outreach Officer

Every newsletter, we catch-up with someone from the Foodbank whose work helps us support our visitors. This month, we spoke to Jemma Strachan, our Operations and Outreach Officer and acting Operations Manager.

Read on to learn more about Jemma, her highlights and how she’s found the last 12 months since joining the charity, as well details of what she’s been doing outside of her work at the Foodbank!

How have the last 12 months been for you?

It’s been busy but brilliant! When I initially joined the Foodbank as Operations and Outreach Officer, our Operations Manager went on maternity leave so I took up the role as maternity cover. Therefore, I didn’t have much time to get into my initial post, and I think it’s safe to say it’s been a bit of a steep learning curve, but much fun. I have enjoyed every minute. I’m so pleased to be here; it feels exactly like the kind of job that I’m made for.

What have you seen change in the last 12 months at the Foodbank?

As a team we’ve all sadly noticed a rise in need. There’s been a couple of dips but overall, it’s been a consistent increase. From a Foodbank perspective, we’ve increased our staff numbers so we’re a bigger team than we once were 12 months ago. We also said goodbye to two long-time staff members who left their roles, which has taken some getting used to as their knowledge and years of experience was a really valuable asset to the rest of the team. We’re also undertaking a project that is centred on improving the volunteer experience, so there has been quite a bit of change and progress over the 12 months.

What have been your highlights from the year?

I’ve particularly enjoyed going to our Welcome Centres. It’s not often I get the chance to visit, but when I do, meeting and supporting the volunteers, whether it’s lending a hand because they’re low on numbers or conducting risk assessments, is one of my favourite things about my job. I always end up coming away incredibly moved by the positive impact that we, and our volunteers, have on someone’s life. It reminds me every time of what we’re really here for, and why we’re doing it.

What does the future look like for you and the Foodbank?

Later this year, I’ll be going back to my original role of Operations and Outreach Officer, so I’ll be at the Welcome Centres more than I am currently. Hopefully this will mean I’ll have more time to get my teeth into more operational projects too! We’re also developing the support we offer our visitors so that they no longer need the support of the Foodbank. All in all, I’m looking forward to see what surprises the future brings.

Are there any upcoming events that volunteers can take part in?

A big one for us, and for our volunteers, is that we’re continuing our ongoing supermarket collections. We’ve requested dates to host more in July and August, and we have another potential date at a major supermarket, but we’re waiting for more information before we share details. We always need help at these events so if you want to get involved, please do get in touch: [email protected].

What have you been up to outside of the Foodbank?

I celebrated a significant birthday recently with my friends, which was lovely. I also completed an agility course with one of my dogs which was a lot of fun! In addition, I’ve started playing badminton with my daughter, her boyfriend and his dad – we do a doubles game of parents versus kids which is so much fun.

I’m going to Canada this month to visit my sister for the first time since she moved. I’ve had it booked for about six months now, so I’ve been looking forward to it for some time. We’ve planned a road trip to New York for when I’m there, and I’m determined to have one of those door-stop sized deli sandwiches and see all the sights!