The Brick has been announced as a Big Issue Changemaker 2026, recognised for its impact and leadership in food and nutrition.
Each year, The Big Issue highlights 100 individuals and organisations across the UK that are driving meaningful social change. The Brick has been selected for the integrity, scale and importance of its work at a time when access to nutritious food and long-term food security has never been more critical.
The recognition reflects The Brick’s transformation of its food provision, moving beyond a traditional food bank model to create a Food Community that prioritises dignity, choice, nutrition and connection. Rather than emergency parcels alone, the Food Community offers people the opportunity to access affordable, nutritious food in a welcoming environment, alongside support that helps address the root causes of food poverty.
Through the Food Community, The Brick works with individuals and families experiencing homelessness, financial hardship and food insecurity, embedding food within a wider package of wellbeing, advice and support. The approach recognises that food is not just an immediate need, but a gateway to improved health, confidence and stability.
The Big Issue Changemakers programme celebrates organisations that are not only responding to crisis, but creating sustainable, long-term solutions that strengthen communities. The Brick was recognised for placing people at the centre of its food offer, reducing stigma and building a model that supports independence rather than dependency.
Keely Dalfen, CEO of The Brick, said: “We’re incredibly proud to be named a Big Issue Changemaker for 2026. Our move from a food bank to a Food Community was about listening to people and recognising that food is about dignity, health and human connection. This recognition belongs to our staff, volunteers and partners, and to the people who shape our services every day. At a time when so many are being pushed into crisis, it reinforces why compassionate, long-term solutions matter.”
The Big Issue Changemaker recognition places The Brick among a national network of organisations influencing positive change across communities and policy, shining a spotlight on solutions that are improving lives across the UK.
You can view the full Big Issue 100 Changemakers list on The Big Issue website.
Big Issue’s 100 Changemakers of 2026: Food and nutrition – Big Issue
