Table Card Initiative

Our flagship fundraising initiative offers diners the opportunity to add a £1 donation to their bill in support of the emergency food network. It’s completely free for restaurants to participate, and the small contribution can help make a big difference in the lives of those who are struggling to put food on the table.

A discreet Table Card is placed on each table or in the bill folder explaining the voluntary £1 donation to the customer. Donations are recorded through a Love Food Share Food button that is programmed into the participating restaurants till. 

Participating restaurants will be promoted across our website and social media platforms as official fundraising partners of Love Food Share Food. This initiative has already been so successful, and we are excited to add more local restaurants to our growing list of partners.

What Is Food Poverty?

Food poverty is a harsh reality affecting more and more people across the United Kingdom, with a staggering 8.4 million families and individuals estimated to be struggling to make ends meet. It’s a complex problem, often stemming from low or no income, homelessness, extreme changes in personal circumstance or mental health issues.  In recent years a lack of access to affordable and nutritious food options has become increasingly common across the country.

The COVID-19 pandemic and the cost of living crisis have further intensified the effects of food poverty. Job losses and rising costs are leaving more families unable to put food on the table, many having to choose between eating and paying bills. Emergency food providers have witnessed a surge in demand, with some reporting an increase of up to 300%. However, these emergency services are merely temporary solutions. Innovative approaches, such as community pantries, social supermarkets, and affordable food networks, are crucial to tackle the root causes and ensure long-term food security for all.

An Argus article from April of 2023 reported that in Brighton and Hove alone, an estimated 24,617 residents, or 9% of the population, were found to be suffering from food insecurity. Thankfully, there are groups and organisations working to provide relief to those most in need and actively advocating for systemic change. With collective support, we can work towards a future where no one in our community has to worry about their next meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • The use of electronic tills makes administration very straightforward. Restaurants allocate a button on their till to Love Food Share Food and staff add £1 to the bill given to the customer. At the close of business each day, the end of day report gives the sum totals for food, alcohol, beverages, service, etc., and a separate sum for the amount taken for the Love Food Share Food campaign.

    At the end of each week the restaurant then simply makes a bank transfer directly into Love Food Share Food’s bank account. Please use the name of the restaurant as a reference so we know who to thank.

  • A discreet table card is placed on each table or in the bill folder explaining to the customer that a voluntary £1 will be added to the table’s bill at the end of the meal, and that for every £1 donated, 50p goes directly the campaign’s chosen beneficiaries, with the other 50p used to support Love Food Share Food’s campaigns to raise more funds for charity. It is also made clear that the customer may choose to decline to donate.

  • There is zero cost to the restaurant. Love Food Share Food provides every participating restaurant with all the table cards and information they need. The initiative is a cost-free way for restaurants to support local emergency food providers.

  • Electronic tills make adding the £1 easy and straightforward, with participation usually having no effect on staff tips. Feedback from restaurants already participating in the campaign indicates that most employees are happy to be a part of the fundraising effort.

  • Our market research conducted in central Brighton shows 100% of customers would be happy to participate and give a little something back after enjoying a delicious meal.

  • The £1 donation is added to the bill after the service charge and VAT, so it does not affect the restaurant’s VAT returns. Restaurants are asked to submit funds to Love Food Share Food by the end of the week or month at the latest.