Ian Jones: The importance of community

We opened in December of 2018. The idea had been in the back of our minds for a few years, but we always felt we were too busy. Eventually, we realised we were always going to be busy – and the best time to do something was now. Opening during the Christmas period may seem like a strange decision but, ultimately, I think it was the correct one. While the holiday season is some people's favourite time of the year, it can be especially lonely for others.

Since then, the people we've shared time with – our volunteers who help us and those who come through the door – have become our extended family. All our regulars have enriched our lives.

While the food is part of what we're doing, from day one it’s really been about the conversation and sense of respect we share with others. Everyone has so much to give, and Eddie's Meals has brought people together from all walks of life.

Being part of something bigger than yourself – having a sense of togetherness – is so important. Supporting people and sharing stories and experiences is what builds strong communities. Over time, many of our regulars have formed their own support networks within the group. There's a real sense of joy in the room – it's an incredible thing to be a part of.

On top of that, we know that fostering these connections can be good for people’s health. Research has demonstrated the link between social isolation and anxiety and depression. By creating ties to the local community, we can help to reduce reducing these negative health outcomes. Eddie’s Meals doesn’t just help us to feel good – it does good as well.

As a result of COVID, we've seen the needs of our community change. More families are coming in. We're trying to alleviate some of the week's stress by providing one less night where they need to worry about cooking (if we can, we'll give them some meals to take home as well).

Unfortunately, COVID also has made some of those who were already isolated even more disconnected. Recently, we've been seeing people who've been in lockdown in their homes for a long time have slowly been reintegrating into their community –it's rewarding to be part of this journey. We've had people tell us they look forward to Eddie's Meals in the same way they used to anticipate a dance on a Saturday night.

We've met some incredible people through the community kitchen.  One woman was a ballerina with the British Royal Ballet – an athlete at the highest level – for 25 years. Her poise and grace enthrals people, and she's a fantastic example for some of the kids who come through the door.

Another woman, who's an absolute joy, arrives with her 92-year-old husband every week. She was an orphan sent to New Zealand during the First World War. We have asylum-seekers who've come to our country after experiencing horrific things, and we've embraced them. These people have so much to offer us, and we'd otherwise miss out on their experiences. They've become our friends and broadened our knowledge about who lives in our area.