The Burrell Shop Food Hub, based at the Charles Burrell Centre, is a local initiative focused on reducing food waste, supporting sustainable shopping and helping residents save money on their weekly shop.
Located just past reception inside the Centre, the Food Hub is open to anyone living in the IP24 postcode area. Members can save up to 40% compared to a standard food shop, while helping to cut down on food waste by buying surplus produce sourced from nearby farms and estates. The Hub also supports the local economy by prioritising locally sourced food wherever possible.
The shop stocks a wide range of items, including fresh and frozen food, dairy, bakery products and essential household goods, offering a practical and affordable option for everyday shopping. Members are encouraged to follow the Charles Burrell Centre Facebook page for updates on weekly offers and new stock. Membership costs a one-off lifetime fee of £3.50. To sign up, residents can visit the shop, complete a short form and provide proof of an IP24 address along with one form of ID. New members are able to shop on the same day.
The Food Hub is open on Tuesdays from 2pm to 6pm, and on Wednesdays and Thursdays from 9am to 1pm.
Volunteers play a central role in running the Hub, helping to create a welcoming and supportive environment for shoppers. “I enjoy helping in the shop every week, stocking shelves, chatting to staff and meeting customers,” said Philippa, one of the volunteers. “It’s quite a social environment in the heart of the community, with loads of free or very good value fresh food, alongside a good range of basic grocery and household goods.”
Sue, who began volunteering after retiring, added: “I retired two and a half years ago and needed something to keep me busy. I had heard of the Burrell Centre and Shop but had never visited due to work. When I retired, I popped in, became a shop member, and had a chat with the manager about volunteering. Two weeks later I started, and I love it. I’ve met old friends and made new ones. It’s lovely to see the difference we can make to people’s lives – it means so much.”
The shop is currently undergoing refurbishment, with improvements planned and further updates expected soon, so keep an eye out!
