CREDITON Foodbank and Support Hub has welcomed Keri Storey as its new Chair of Trustees, following the retirement of long serving chair Chris Parsons.

Keri brings many years of experience in health and social care to the role, having previously worked as Head of Adult Care Operations and Health at Devon County Council.

After a long career supporting individuals and families facing difficult situations, she said joining the food bank felt like a natural next step.

“Throughout my career I worked alongside individuals and families facing complex challenges, and I came to understand that access to food is not just a basic need, it’s a foundation for dignity, stability and wellbeing,” said Keri.

“Joining Crediton Foodbank and Support Hub feels like a natural continuation of that work. I’m really looking forward to working with the team, strengthening partnerships in the community, and helping make sure that no one locally goes without the support they need.”

Keri takes over from Chris Parsons, who stepped down as Chair in October 2025 after many years of dedication to the food bank and the wider Crediton community.

Chris first became involved in the Foodbank in 2017 while part of the leadership team at Crediton Congregational Church, where the food bank originally began as a community outreach project. Drawing on her professional experience supporting families through the Children’s Centre network, she helped expand the support available to people visiting the food bank.

Over the years the organisation has grown significantly, particularly during the Covid pandemic when demand increased sharply. Today the Foodbank supports hundreds of local households each year.

“In 2025 alone we provided more than 2,000 food parcels to households across our community,” said Chris.

“It has been a real privilege to work alongside such a caring group of staff, trustees and volunteers. What makes this place special is the way people come together to support one another. I’m incredibly proud of everything the team has achieved.”

Chris said she felt it was the right time to step back and allow the organisation to continue evolving.

“I’ve always felt strongly that the Foodbank should keep growing and adapting to meet people’s needs. It feels like the right moment to make space for the next chapter, and I’m delighted that Keri is taking on the role.”

Alongside providing emergency food parcels, the charity now offers wider support through projects such as Springboard, which helps people with things like debt advice, housing issues, budgeting and wellbeing.

Chris will continue supporting the Foodbank as a relief volunteer, while also enjoying a little more time for other things - including learning British Sign Language, running a monthly community lunch for around 45 people, keeping active at the gym and swimming pool, and spending time with her grandchildren.

Crediton Foodbank and Support Hub continues to rely on the support of volunteers, local organisations and donors to help people across the Crediton area. If you or someone you know needs support, please contact Crediton Foodbank and Support Hub: 07740 202721 or email: [email protected]