What is Refilled?
Refilled is a new initiative that tackles both food poverty and waste in disadvantaged communities by developing a zero-waste ‘refill station’, where people can access affordable food and household essentials. Everyone is welcome to come along.
Refilled are using their capacity to access bulk and catering size packs that individual households cannot. As these packs are often cheaper per gram than the smaller size packs, they’re able to offer Refilled members access to the same items cheaper than a typical supermarket.
At its core, Refilled is an eco-initiative that seeks to reduce the plastic and food waste that is so common throughout the system. They’re encouraging members to bring their own reusable containers to carry their items and take only the amount they know they will use, reducing single-use plastic and minimising the risk of food being thrown away/wasted.
The initiative will allow people to redirect savings made on food costs towards other bills or savings, as well as building connections across our community as members are invited to stay for tea and coffee as well as access other appropriate support.
How much does it cost? £3.00 for ten items. They can accept payments by either cash or card. You can also double up on items, so 24 tea bags = 1 item.
Importantly, the cost of the membership will fluctuate depending on the items that are stocked. For example, if members collectively decide that they want a more expensive brand of coffee, they are more than happy to stock this but members must be aware that the price of their subscription will increase to cover this cost.
What’s included?
The food items available will all be dried (e.g., pasta, cereal, rice, oats, coffee, tea, sugar, hot chocolate) and the household essentials include items like washing up liquid and laundry detergent, fabric softer, shampoo, hair conditioner and shower gel. Members will need to bring reusable containers along with them. They have a limited number of paper bags, jars and containers for members who forget.
They will also have free tea and coffee available for members waiting, or for those who would like to stay after they have accessed the station.
What does someone joining need to do?
There is a short sign-up form, but if you are interested going to a session, please do feel free to just turn up.
Where and when?
Refilled happens at St Andrews Community Network 16 Larkhill Lane, Liverpool, L13 9BR.
Every Tuesday 10.00 – 12.00, but you can pop down any time the centre is open (Mon – Fri 09.00 – 15.30).