Independent Food Aid Network (IFAN)

What is the Independent Food Aid Network (IFAN)?

The Independent Food Aid Network (IFAN) is a UK-wide charity founded in 2016, dedicated to supporting independent food aid providers and advocating for systemic change in how the country addresses food insecurity. IFAN champions a cash-first approach — the principle that people in crisis should receive financial support rather than relying on charitable food parcels.

IFAN's ultimate vision is a country where no one needs to turn to charitable food aid. The network supports food banks and food aid organisations across the UK, providing resources, research, and a collective voice for policy change. Their work sits at the intersection of frontline support and national-level advocacy, making them a unique and influential voice in the fight against food poverty.

Where will I work?

IFAN is based in London, United Kingdom, and operates a hybrid working model. As a UK-wide network, much of the work involves connecting with food aid providers and policymakers across the country, which lends itself naturally to a mix of remote working, London-based meetings, and occasional travel to network members and events nationwide.

What is the team like?

With approximately 5 employees, IFAN is a small but impactful team of policy experts, researchers, and network coordinators. Every team member plays a significant role in shaping the organisation's advocacy, research output, and support for food aid providers across the UK.

The team is united by a shared passion for social justice and a belief that food poverty is a political choice that can be reversed. Despite its small size, IFAN punches well above its weight in terms of policy influence and media presence, regularly contributing to parliamentary inquiries and national conversations about food insecurity.

Work-Life Balance

IFAN operates a 4-day working week at 32 hours with full pay. For a charity working on urgent social issues like food poverty, adopting a 4-day week demonstrates a commitment to staff wellbeing that is consistent with its values of dignity and care. The hybrid working model adds further flexibility to the reduced-hours schedule.

Perks and Benefits

• 4-day working week at full pay (32 hours)
• Hybrid working model
• Professional development opportunities
• Meaningful work addressing food insecurity
• UK-wide network and policy influence
• Small team with significant impact