Garforth Woman Marks 11 Years At Leeds Food Bank

A Garforth woman is marking 11 years of volunteering at a Leeds food bank, after the role helped her build independence and confidence.

Nicola Butterfield, 49, moved into her own flat in Garforth back in 2015. That same year, she started volunteering at the Trussell Food Bank in Belle Isle.

Every Friday since, Nicola has caught two buses across the city to lend a hand. Her jobs at the food bank include packing parcels, checking dates, rotating stock and welcoming visitors.

She also helps with admin and checks whether people qualify for support. Nicola says the role has taught her practical skills, but the biggest change has been in her confidence.

“I love meeting all the people who visit the food bank and I love that I am making a difference to other people’s lives and supporting such a good cause. I’ve learned that I’m very good with people and that I have lots of people skills,” she said.

Nicola receives daily care visits from Gaby Dell, a care assistant with Springfield Healthcare. Gaby supports Nicola’s independence and travels with her on the weekly trip to the food bank.

“Nicola is so passionate about helping others and it’s really inspiring to see her make the journey every week to the food bank,” Gaby said.

Jenny Mills, a signposting volunteer at the food bank, has worked alongside Nicola for four years. She said Nicola is always willing to get stuck in, whatever the task.

“She is well supported by her carers, which enables her to fulfil her potential within the food bank,” Jenny said.

Over the years, Nicola has built strong friendships with the rest of the volunteer team. Colleagues say her confidence has grown steadily throughout her time there.

Despite more than a decade of dedication, Nicola stays humble about what she has achieved.

Asked to sum up her 11 years of volunteering, she kept it simple: “It is an absolute pleasure to be able to volunteer.”