Newcastle upon Tyne Lord Mayor Praises The People’s Kitchen Ahead of Departure

Henry Gallagher has paid tribute to the volunteers behind one of Newcastle upon Tyne’s best-known charities as he prepares to step down from his role as Lord Mayor.

The outgoing civic leader praised the dedication and compassion shown by volunteers at The People’s Kitchen, a charity that has spent decades supporting vulnerable people across the city through free meals, practical assistance and companionship.

Founded in 1985, The People’s Kitchen has become a vital part of community life in Newcastle upon Tyne. Operating every single day of the year, the charity currently serves around 300 hot meals daily while also providing clothing, food parcels, toiletries and emotional support to those facing hardship.

Throughout his year in office, Councillor Gallagher selected the charity as one of his chosen causes and used a series of civic engagements, fundraising events and community visits to help raise awareness of its work.

The People’s Kitchen continues to support hundreds across Newcastle upon Tyne.

Run entirely by volunteers, The People’s Kitchen has become a lifeline for many people living in Newcastle upon Tyne who are struggling with poverty, homelessness, isolation and rising living costs.

Based in the city centre, the organisation welcomes people from all walks of life who may need help, whether through a warm meal, essential supplies or simply someone to talk to.

The charity’s work has become increasingly important in recent years as more households across the North East continue to feel financial pressure from higher energy bills, food prices and housing costs.

Despite the growing demand, volunteers continue to provide support seven days a week, relying heavily on donations from residents, businesses and community groups to keep services running.

Speaking about the charity, Councillor Gallagher said he had been deeply moved by the commitment shown by those who give up their time to help others.

“It’s been fantastic being able to help The People’s Kitchen,” he said.

“I first came here when I was Deputy Lord Mayor, and I was really impressed by how caring and dedicated the volunteers are. I decided then that this needed to be one of my chosen charities because the volunteers do such an excellent job.

“I’ve seen how caring they are and have been privileged to see the work they do at first hand.”

Lord Mayor highlights importance of volunteers in Newcastle.

During his time as Lord Mayor of Newcastle upon Tyne, Councillor Gallagher attended numerous charity events aimed at supporting local organisations and encouraging community involvement across the city.

His backing of The People’s Kitchen has helped draw attention to the ongoing challenges faced by vulnerable residents while also recognising the often unseen efforts of volunteers.

Community charities across Newcastle continue to play a major role in supporting people who may otherwise struggle to access food, social support or basic essentials.

The People’s Kitchen has long been recognised as one of the city’s most respected charitable organisations, with volunteers helping to create an environment where people are treated with dignity and compassion.

Maggie Pavlou, Trustee at The People’s Kitchen, said the charity had been honoured to receive support from the Lord Mayor during his term in office.

“We’ve been honoured to have the Lord Mayor championing our work this year,” she said.

“His involvement reminds the city that kindness costs nothing but changes lives.

“Every day, our volunteers provide hot meals, friendship and hope to those who need it most, and having the Lord Mayor’s encouragement means the world to us.”

Newcastle charities continue to face rising demand for support.

Charities and community groups across Newcastle upon Tyne continue to report increased demand for support services, particularly as many residents deal with ongoing financial pressures.

Organisations such as The People’s Kitchen depend on donations and volunteer support to continue helping people throughout the year. Local businesses, schools, faith groups and residents regularly contribute food, clothing and financial donations to help sustain services.

Volunteers remain at the heart of the charity’s success, with many giving their time during evenings, weekends and holidays to ensure vulnerable people are not left without support.

The People’s Kitchen has also become well known for offering a sense of belonging and human connection to those who may otherwise experience loneliness or isolation.

For many visitors, the charity provides far more than a meal. It offers reassurance, conversation and a safe place during difficult times.

Lord Mayor also supported Daft as a Brush Cancer Patient Care.

Alongside The People’s Kitchen, Councillor Gallagher also supported Daft as a Brush Cancer Patient Care during his year as Lord Mayor of Newcastle upon Tyne.

The charity provides free transport for cancer patients travelling to hospital appointments and treatment sessions, helping reduce stress for patients and their families during difficult periods.

Daft as a Brush volunteers offer companionship and practical assistance for people attending medical appointments across the region, with the service becoming a crucial source of support for many North East families.

Councillor Gallagher’s involvement with both charities reflected a wider focus on recognising organisations that provide direct support to people across Newcastle and the surrounding areas.

As his term as Lord Mayor comes to an end, he said he hoped the attention given to charities during the past year would encourage more people to support local causes and volunteer within their communities.

The work carried out by charities like The People’s Kitchen continues to demonstrate the strength of community spirit across Newcastle upon Tyne, with volunteers making a lasting difference to the lives of hundreds of people every day.

What do you think about the work carried out by charities like The People’s Kitchen in Newcastle upon Tyne? Share your thoughts in the comments and let us know how community organisations have helped people in your area.