Tom Gordon MP Joins Harrogate Volunteers to Deliver Meals on Wheels

Tom Gordon, Liberal Democrat MP for Harrogate and Knaresborough joined Harrogate
Neighbours today to deliver hot meals to elderly residents across the town as part of their
Meals on Wheels service.

The service, run by Harrogate Neighbours and their dedicated team of volunteer ‘Food
Angels’ provides freshly cooked meals straight to people’s doors, ensuring that older
residents receive nutritious food and vital social contact.

The initiative was launched after the closure of the former council-run service left a
significant gap in community support. Today, the Food Angels deliver over 100 homemade
meals everyday across the Harrogate district, helping to combat loneliness, isolation, and
food insecurity among older people.

Tom was pleased to join the team during National Meals on Wheels Week, which celebrates
the vital role these services play in supporting older and vulnerable residents across the UK.
Recognising that that support is needed now more than ever, as the cost of living and rising
bills leave many older people struggling to afford essentials like food and heating.

Commenting, Tom said:

‘Meals on Wheels is a lifeline for so many older residents – especially as living costs
continue to rise – providing not just hot, nutritious meals, but also vital social contact.

‘Harrogate Neighbours and their volunteers do an excellent job supporting hundreds of
residents every single day. Their hard work and commitment make a real difference in our
community.

‘It was great to join them today, see their work first-hand, and thank the volunteers who give
their time to make this service possible.’

Jamie Nicholson-Ruther, Communications and Development Manager for Harrogate
Neighbours, said:

'It's great to have Tom come and help us deliver our meals this week. Every single person
we visit relies on us for their wellbeing, and our service is so unique in Harrogate that it's
important Tom sees the difference it makes.'