Ahead of her 60th birthday, the Duchess of Edinburgh visited the Lambeth branch of Community Shop, a social enterprise dedicated to tackling food insecurity in areas of social inequality across the UK.
Community Shop operates 13 stores nationwide, each offering a unique model that addresses food waste and supports vulnerable communities. By partnering with the food industry to repurpose surplus products, the stores provide deeply discounted essentials to members on means-tested benefits. This sustainable approach not only prevents food waste but also delivers essential savings to thousands of families each year.
Sophie saw how the organisation is tackling food insecurity. (Community Shop/Facebook)
During her visit, the Duchess actively participated in community activities, including serving during the store’s “Feast Day,” a special event that brings the community together over food. She also toured the site, alongside fellow community members, engaging with staff and learning about the vital services offered through the interconnected spaces of the Community Store, Community Hub, and Community Kitchen.
The Community Store serves as the cornerstone of the initiative, offering deeply discounted food items, such as fresh fruit, vegetables, and bread for as little as 20p. Profits generated by the store are reinvested into the Community Hub, which delivers holistic support programmes aimed at empowering individuals to create brighter futures. These programmes range from skills development to personal growth opportunities.
The Duchess of Edinburgh toured the facilities. (Community Shop/Facebook)
Her Royal Highness also rolled up her sleeves and got. behind the kitchen counter to serve meals to attendees at the Community Kitchen.
The Community Kitchen adds another layer of support by providing a welcoming space for connection and nourishment. The café serves home-cooked meals, with free meals for children every day, while also hosting food-based learning experiences for the community. This integrated approach ensures that families not only meet their immediate needs but also build the confidence and skills to improve their circumstances in the long term.
The Duchess of Edinburgh was presented with a special cake ahead of her 60th birthday. (Community Shop/Facebook)
During the visit, the Duchess was presented with a special cake ahead of turning 60 on 20th January. It was reported by The Times that Sophie will be spending her birthday ‘privately’ at Bagshot Park, alongside Prince Edward and their three dogs. Sophie’s children – Louise and James – will send birthday wishes from University of St Andrews and a boarding school in Oxfordshire retrospectively.
Since its establishment in 2013, Community Shop has made an extraordinary impact, supporting over 72,000 families. Through its interconnected model, the organisation has saved members over £50 million on shopping, delivered more than 200,000 development programmes, and provided free meals to over 880,000 children.
The Duchess of Edinburgh visited Community Shop Lambeth. (Royal Family)
Gary Stott, executive chairman of Community Shop, said: We are honoured to have welcomed Her Royal Highness, The Duchess of Edinburgh, to Community Shop Lambeth.’
‘This royal visit highlights the vital importance of our mission and is a real boost for the Community Shop team who work tirelessly to tackle food insecurity. Our Lambeth store provides a lifeline for the local community and we’re proud to have created a vibrant, welcoming space where people come to share stories, learn and eat together.’
The Duchess of Edinburgh got behind the kitchen counter to serve up meals to attendees. (Royal Family)
Community Wellbeing Practitioner Esther Dennis, added that ‘The Duchess of Edinburgh’s support today will help to amplify our message as we continue expanding our efforts to tackle food poverty in our local community and nationwide’.
The Duchess of Edinburgh’s visit highlights the importance of initiatives like Community Shop in addressing social inequalities and creating sustainable change. Her active participation and engagement with the community reaffirm her dedication to supporting causes that foster empowerment and resilience.
