Food Train unveils national expansion plan

AN ambitious expansion plan has been unveiled by the Dumfries-founded Food Train charity amid mounting concerns about malnutrition among older people.

It hopes to grow the number of areas across Scotland in which it has branches from nine to 18 - taking the total number of over-65s that it supports to 4000 by 2031.

Food Train is headquartered at English Street in Dumfries, with its shopping delivery and befriending nationally shaped on those operated by volunteer teams in Dumfries, Annan, Castle Douglas, Newton Stewart and Stranraer.

Chief executive Rosie McLuskie said: “Food Train is more than just a shopping service. Our volunteers deliver not only food, but dignity for our older people. That’s vitally important.

“Over the next five years we will strengthen our foundations, expand our reach and ensure that every older person who needs support can access it with dignity and choice. When older people thrive, communities thrive.”

Expansion is initially being targeted in neighbouring regions.

To find out more, go to www.thefoodtrain.co.uk. Above: Food Train chief executive Rosie McLuskie and vice-chair Bruce Hedley with the charity's new strategic vision document