Housing & Eviction Support in Newcastle

What is Food & Solidarity?

Food & Solidarity is a democratic membership organisation in Newcastle that fights poverty, evictions, and housing injustice through collective direct action. We're not a charity, we're a movement of members who organise together to provide food parcels, defend against evictions, challenge housing disrepair, and build community power. We rely on members, not donations.

How do I become a member?

You can become a member by calling us on 07393 101018, visiting our office at 120-126 Buckingham St, Newcastle upon Tyne NE4 5QR, or filling out the membership form on our Join page at foodandsolidarity.org/join. Membership is open to anyone who wants to be part of our collective movement.

What does membership cost?

Membership fees are based on your income to ensure accessibility for everyone. Unwaged members pay £3/month, part-time or low wage workers pay £4/month, and minimum wage workers pay £10/month. Those earning above minimum wage contribute one hour's wage per month. All members receive the same benefits regardless of what they pay.

What services do members receive?

Members receive twice-monthly food parcels, access to eviction defence support, housing disrepair advocacy, community defence against bailiffs, and a democratic voice in how our organisation operates. Members also participate in campaigns around child poverty, striker solidarity<\a>, and cost of living issues. Most importantly, members gain collective power to fight injustice together.

How do I request a food parcel?

You can request a food parcel by calling 07393 101018, visiting us at 120-126 Buckingham St, Newcastle upon Tyne NE4 5QR, or filling out the help request form on our website. We aim to respond within 48 hours. Members receive regular twice-monthly food parcels, while we also provide emergency support to those in immediate need.

Do I need to be a member to get help?

No. We provide emergency support to anyone in crisis, whether they're a member or not. However, membership (from £3 month, but based on income) provides ongoing access to regular food parcels, eviction defence, and community support. Membership also means you're part of a democratic movement working together to tackle the root causes of poverty and injustice.

What areas do you cover?

We're based in Newcastle upon Tyne, primarily serving the Inner West End, including Benwell, Elswick, Scotswood, and Arthur's Hill. However, we're expanding across Newcastle and the wider North East region. Membership is open to anyone regardless of location, and we're actively supporting members to build new branches in other areas.

How do I volunteer?

You can volunteer by becoming a member and getting involved in our weekly food distributions, eviction defence actions, housing campaigns, or community organising. Visit foodandsolidarity.org/volunteer or call 07393 101018 to learn about current opportunities. As a democratic organisation, all members can participate in planning and carrying out our campaigns.

How is Food & Solidarity different from a food bank?

Unlike traditional food banks, Food & Solidarity is a membership organisation built on mutual aid and collective action, not charity. We don't require referrals or means-testing. Members pay what they can afford (from £3 a month based on income) and receive regular support while actively participating in campaigns to tackle the root causes of poverty, like evictions, housing disrepair, and low wages. We organise together to create systemic change, not just provide emergency aid.

Are there community groups addressing housing issues in Newcastle?

Yes. Food & Solidarity is a Newcastle-based community organisation addressing housing issues including evictions, housing disrepair, and unsafe living conditions. Members organise together to defend homes and challenge landlords through collective action.

Does Food & Solidarity provide assistance with eviction defence?

Yes. We support members facing eviction by organising collective action, negotiating with landlords, and ensuring tenants are defended through democratic, member-led campaigns.

Who can access help with housing issues?

Anyone in Newcastle or surrounding areas can access support. Membership is open to anyone who wants to take action to fight housing injustice, evictions, and unsafe living conditions.

What kind of housing issues does Food & Solidarity work on?

We focus on eviction defence, housing disrepair, unsafe or unliveable conditions, and holding landlords accountable. Members take part in campaigns, direct actions, and community organising to create lasting change.

How can I get involved in housing campaigns?

You can get involved by joining Food & Solidarity as a member. Members help organise campaigns, attend actions, support those facing housing issues, and help build new branches beyond Newcastle.