Introduction
iCare is a nationwide initiative by the UKIM focused on supporting vulnerable individuals and families facing poverty, hardship, and social isolation, irrespective of background, colour, or religion. iCare’s work is rooted in community care and aims to ensure that essential support is available to anyone in need, regardless of circumstance. At a local level, all iCare services are delivered by the EIC.
Across the UK, the need for this type of support is significant. Recent national data from major food aid networks indicates that over 3 million emergency food parcels are distributed annually, highlighting the scale of food insecurity and financial hardship affecting communities.
Our Initiatives
Community Hubs Across the UK
iCare operates through a growing network of local hubs in cities including Birmingham, Oldham, Peterborough, and London. These hubs act as accessible community spaces where people can receive practical help, welfare support, and guidance.
As cost-of-living pressures continue to impact households nationwide, demand for food banks and community welfare services has increased significantly in recent years. Localised delivery ensures support is responsive, accessible, and tailored to the needs of each community.
How to access these services?
These services are self-referring and open to members of the community who may need support, subject to a means assessment where applicable. Sessions are held throughout the month, allowing visitors to attend in a welcoming and respectful environment. Please contact the EIC directly for any enquiries.
Please note: To use some the these services, a valid ID is required and a short income assessment could be carried out during registration.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
iCare is a nationwide initiative focused on supporting vulnerable individuals and families facing poverty, hardship, and social isolation. It is open to everyone regardless of background, faith, ethnicity, or circumstance, and is built on the principles of compassion, dignity, and community care.
iCare services are open to all members of the community. Support is provided irrespective of religion, ethnicity, or background, ensuring that anyone in need can access help in a safe and welcoming environment.
The fortnightly iCare Community Food Hub provides essential food and support in a dignified and non-judgemental setting. Items and services may include:
- Non-perishable food items
- Household essentials (where available)
- Living essentials
- Friendly support and signposting to local services
- A safe space for conversation and community interaction
iCare also provides emergency relief for individuals and families in urgent need. This includes hot meals, winter kits, and essential household items, along with wider practical assistance where required. In some cases, support can also be delivered directly to people at home if they are unable to access the hub.
This service is designed to respond quickly to crisis situations, particularly where individuals are facing immediate hardship, food insecurity, or unsafe living conditions.
Winter kits may include essential cold-weather items such as warm clothing, blankets, and basic supplies to help individuals and families stay safe and warm during colder months.
Across the UK, millions of people are affected by rising living costs and financial hardship. Recent data shows that over 3 million emergency food parcels are distributed annually, highlighting the scale of food insecurity and the growing need for community-based support.
The iCare Community Food Hub runs fortnightly (every two weeks), providing regular and reliable access to support for those in need.
The food hub operates:
Saturdays, 11am – 1pm
The hub is based at:
EIC, Ground Floor
No referral is required. Individuals can attend directly during opening hours, although basic registration may be required.
Please bring a valid form of ID. A short income assessment may also be carried out during registration where necessary.
Yes. All iCare services, including food support and emergency relief, are completely free to access.
iCare goes beyond emergency relief by offering wider community support, including guidance, advice, and signposting to other services. This helps individuals and families move towards longer-term stability and wellbeing.
In addition, iCare helps to:
- Reduce social isolation
- Build trust and understanding between communities
- Encourage volunteering and civic responsibility
- Strengthen the centre’s role as a community hub
Yes. In certain urgent or vulnerable cases, support may be delivered directly to individuals at home, particularly where they are unable to travel to the hub.
iCare is supported through donations, fundraising, and community contributions. Local volunteers and partner organisations also play a key role in sustaining the services.
iCare is driven by volunteers, donors, and community partners. This community-led approach ensures services are responsive, flexible, and shaped by real local needs.
You can support iCare by volunteering, donating food items, or contributing financially. Community involvement is essential to helping the service continue and reach those most in need.
Yes. iCare is open to everyone regardless of faith or background, and aims to serve the whole community with dignity and respect.
iCare provides more than just food. Alongside emergency relief, it offers emotional support, signposting to services, community connection, and in some cases home delivery. It is designed as a holistic community support system rather than just a distribution point.
Yes. iCare also supports individuals who may be experiencing general hardship, rising costs, or social isolation, not only those in crisis situations.