Grocery charity GroceryAid has just released its Impact Report for 2024/25.
It reveals GroceryAid has made significant strides in supporting grocery workers through various welfare services over the last 12 months, reflecting a commitment to providing relief during ever more challenging times. It highlights a 76% increase in incidents of support for colleagues, taking the total to over 139,000 for the period.
There was also an increase in calls to the GroceryAid helpline, up 3% to 12,300 calls. Increases were also seen in children receiving a £150 School Essentials Grant – up 12.5% on the previous year, and a 23% increase in other grants, totalling 8,504.
In terms of the cost of living, the last year has clearly been more challenging for those calling on GroceryAid’s services. It saw a 23% increase in non-repayable financial grants, and over 52,000 page views on cost of living advice webpages. Grants have also helped colleagues manage housing costs, with 165 hours of legal advice provided through the charity’s Shelter Plus scheme.
Away from finances, GroceryAid also offers confidential emotional support for those who need it. In 2024/25, more than 5,300 in-the-moment counselling sessions were provided, and 1,128 colleagues received structured counselling support, making for a 67% increase.
In addition, over 2,110 colleagues accessed family or relationship counselling, representing a 33% increase on the previous year, and over 1,900 colleagues utilised the online self-help and guided CBT sessions on offer - a 26% increase.
In perhaps more upbeat news, the report shows that GroceryAid’s fundraising efforts have expanded, enabling greater support for any grocery workers in need. Five fundraising events raised over £1 million each, while over 770 organizations supported GroceryAid, with 120 senior industry leaders involved.
Looking forward, the charity says its main aim is to raise awareness of its services among grocery workers further, as confirmed to Convenience Store earlier this month.
GroceryAid’s free and confidential Helpline is available 24/7 to all grocery colleagues and their spouse/partner and dependents over 18. For immediate emotional support, call 08088 021 122 or visit groceryaid.org.uk for more information.
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