A Pontypridd man who used a food bank after graduating wants to end the stigma

The family had a tough few weeks after Steven graduated, but the University of South Wales supported him to start his medical business.

He found it difficult to ask for help at first, but says it’s important to “re-invent” feelings of shame or failure by visiting food banks.

Steven said the experience of visiting the Tef Ili Food Bank was “exciting” because people were so welcoming.

“I was like this, this is a victory,” he said, “I am strong, I am not weak, I am brave.”

Steven now volunteers for the Life Experience team, supporting the Taff Ely Food Bank and other charities.

The group’s proposal is to stop food banks from using marker pens on their bags so that they don’t identify as coming from a food bank, and give visitors the chance to choose their own food.

“It gives people a little more freedom and autonomy,” he said.

“They can choose their own items, they can exchange one thing for another, there is still a certain allowance, but it saves food waste.”