January 2026

A new year of Hope

Dear Supporter,

January is often a time when minds turn to new beginnings, resolutions and looking forward. One of Hope Nottingham's core values is 'Positive Change' something we hope for both for us as an organisation and in the lives of all those we serve in our local communities.

Our food banks support people who have an immediate need for emergency food, but we know real positive change needs more. That is why we are committed to providing professional advice, signposting to wider support, people to listen and befriend and community activities to help address isolation and loneliness. However, whilst we are not in a 'financial crisis', we are genuinely worried about the funding horizon to sustain essential services like welfare and benefits advice provision, as our current funding ends in March.

Of course we are applying for grants, but Hope Nottingham also relies heavily on regular giving. We are so grateful to the many who already support us in this way, but having more committed monthly donors - even when they are small commitments - makes such a difference. Please consider setting up a regular gift to us, we assure you it will be put to great use!

"But those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint."

Isaiah 40:31

Tea & Tech: Supporting digital literacy in Carlton

Modern life is more and more digital in nature. Whether it is banking, shopping or accessing local services, increasing numbers of everyday tasks seem to be moving online or rely on access to technology. Whilst for many, this offers advantages of increased convenience and accessibility, for others it can present a significant barrier to accessing services.

Whether due to not owning devices to get online, concerns about security and safety, a lack of confidence using technology or just never having been taught how to use and access online services, the increasingly online world can seem daunting for many in our communities. We are aware that whilst the online world can be a good way of connecting with others, those who can't or struggle to access it, are left further isolated.

Hope Nottingham began our Wednesday afternoon "Tea & Tech" sessions at our Carlton Hub before Christmas with the aim of providing a friendly, welcoming place for people to get help and support with using devices, getting online and accessing internet-based services. We have now expanded this provision to include some additional Monday morning sessions, which as well as a general drop-in, include sessions looking at specific common themes - everything from using email to staying safe online. The sessions are open to all - whatever your 'tech' experience - no question is too silly to ask!

An easy way to help us raise money!

We are so grateful for the regular donations that supporters like you give to Hope Nottingham, helping to keep our foodbanks stocked with food and financial donations allowing us to run our wider activities and support.

If you shop online, you can now support us even more - and it won't cost you anything! We’re now registered with easyfundraising, which means you can help us for FREE. Over 8,000 retailers will donate to us when you use easyfundraising to shop with them – at no extra cost to yourself! All you need to do is sign up and remember to use easyfundraising whenever you shop online -either via their website, a downloadable app or their 'donation reminder' tool.

Whether it's your regular weekly shop, one off items or annual purchases such as insurance or holidays, Hope Nottingham can benefit from retailers donating each time you spend online. To find out more about how it works, visit the easyfundrasing website.

It’s easy and completely free. These donations really mount up, so please sign up to support us here and start raising some easy money!

Welcome to our new Trustees

We are delighted to introduce two new members of Hope Nottingham's Board of Trustees. Acting as our governing body, our Board is ultimately responsible for everything we do. All of our Trustees are unpaid volunteers and we are incredibly grateful for their time, commitment and dedication in serving in this vital role. You can read about the rest of our fantastic Trustees here.

Carol Garle

Carol joins us from a background in food manufacturing and food safety auditing, recently running a consulting business supporting a wide range of food producers.

Carol also volunteers both in our office and as part of our Beeston Community Allotment team.

Roy McCloughry

Roy brings wide experience in the publishing, academic and charity sectors and has written extensively on Christian approaches to social, economic and political issues. A lay Minister in the Church of England, before retirement Roy was National Disability Adviser to the Church of England. 

Supporting language learners

Hope Nottingham's English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) classes provide a friendly and welcoming atmosphere for speakers of other languages to learn, practice and improve their English.

Originally arising from seeing an increase in non-native English speakers attending our Literacy group, our ESOL class which takes place on a Monday 12.30pm - 2.30pm at Hope House in Beeston has continued to develop and grow thanks to an amazing lead volunteer and dedicated team of volunteers. Adopting an approach focussed on teaching in informal, small groups, the sessions allow learners to improve their English, practice conversation, develop their language skills, meet new people and feel welcomed as part of the local community.

If you are interested in getting involved, we are currently looking for friendly, confident and outgoing individuals with excellent communication and language skills to join our volunteer team. Whilst an interest in or experience of teaching ESOL is an advantage, it is not essential. If you are interested or would like to find out more, please do get in touch.

New Year - new opportunities!

Why not join our volunteer team?

Thinking about doing something different in 2026? Looking for an opportunity to make a difference and give something back to your local community? In addition to the Trustee and ESOL roles mentioned above, we are also currently in need of enthusiastic and motivated individuals to fill the following roles:

To enquire about any of our volunteer vacancies, please email us.

Our volunteer vacancies change regularly so for further details of these and other current vacancies, please do see our Volunteering webpage.

Final thoughts...

This months reflection comes from our Support Manager Iain Anderson, who reflects on finding hope in a new year. You can read his short reflection here.

Hope Nottingham | 0303 040 1110 | www.hope-nottingham.org.uk