Newcastle West End Food Bank faced significant challenges before engaging with RayFire Services. One major issue was the lack of funding and support, resulting in zero budget for some necessary works. Additionally, the food bank’s fully occupied and operational status required that any installation work be carried out while the site remained live, adding complexity to the project.
RayFire Services stepped in to assist by engaging with their partners who manufacture wireless fire alarm systems and control panels. RayFire requested support in supplying the necessary equipment. Both partners generously agreed to provide the fire alarm system and control panel free of charge. This collaboration enabled RayFire to deliver a comprehensive fire protection system to the charity at no cost, ensuring the food bank could maintain its operations safely.
The new fire system was supplied, installed, and commissioned within just ten days of the initial enquiry. The food bank now benefits from a full L1 fire alarm system, which provides the highest level of protection for the community support hub in Newcastle’s West End. This upgrade ensures the safety of both volunteers and staff, allowing them to focus on their crucial work without concerns about fire safety.
John McCorry, CEO of Newcastle Food Bank, expressed his gratitude:
“Every day, we witness the difference we make in people’s lives. Knowing that our facility is protected by the best fire systems allows us to focus on what we do best: serving our community. We’re so grateful for this support and, because we didn’t have to pay for the new fire system, those funds can be ploughed back into our core mission.”
The project brought unexpected benefits, reinforcing Newcastle Food Bank’s essential role in the community. The food bank, now protected by a new fire system provided by Advanced and Hyfire and installed by RayFire Services, can confidently continue its operations. The collaboration among these companies, all part of Halma plc, highlights a spirit of community service and mutual support.
Since its opening in March 2013, Newcastle Food Bank West End has been a beacon of hope, providing over 23,700 food parcels annually. It not only offers emergency food assistance but also partners with specialist agencies to help beneficiaries tackle deeper issues such as debt, unemployment, addiction, and housing.
Ray Hope from RayFire Services praised the initiative, saying, “The previous fire system was no longer fit for purpose, so when we heard about the project, we were happy to help. Our collaboration ensures the Food Bank can continue its mission with reassurance that the right fire systems are in place.”
Robert Bruce, National Key Account Manager at Hyfire, added, “The significance of the Food Bank cannot be overstated, so when we heard about the urgent need for a new fire system, we were only too happy to help. We’re thrilled to have had the opportunity to work with Advanced and RayFire to support this vital resource.”
In the face of increasing poverty, with 1-in-5 people in the UK living below the poverty line, Newcastle Food Bank’s distribution of 287 tonnes of food annually makes a substantial difference. The charity, part of the Trussell Trust network, continues to provide emergency food and compassionate support to those in crisis.
This project underscored the power of community and corporate collaboration in addressing urgent needs within charitable organisations. RayFire Services, Advanced, and Hyfire demonstrated how businesses can contribute significantly to community welfare by leveraging their resources and expertise. The successful installation of a state-of-the-art fire system at no cost to the Newcastle West End Food Bank exemplifies how innovative partnerships can overcome financial and operational challenges, ensuring that vital community services can continue uninterrupted. The experience highlighted the importance of proactive engagement and the willingness to support essential causes, reinforcing the idea that collective efforts can lead to impactful and sustainable solutions.
