'Volunteering with food charity saved me from loneliness'

'Volunteering with food charity saved me from loneliness'Image source, BBC/Naj ModakImage caption, Ian White was invited to the FoodCycle charity after feeling "suicidal" when his marriage endedByNaj ModakYorkshirePublishedJust nowThree years ago, Ian White was left feeling "suicidal" after the collapse of his marriage, struggling to cope with loneliness and isolation.The 61-year-old grandfather was invited to a session at FoodCycle, a charity that brings people together through communal dining - and it has changed his life.White now volunteers with the charity at Primrose Hill in Sheffield, helping to reduce food waste while offering a space for conversation and connection.He said: "The other guests heard about my situation and made me feel welcome and we formed friendships. I feel wanted - it's given me meaning in life."After separating from his wife, White was eating poorly and lost 8st (51kg) in weight in just one year.A friend recommended FoodCycle and he was initially nervous about attending."There were lots of people I didn't know and I'm not a confident eater in front of strangers, but I got used to it, and now I'll eat anywhere," he said.Each week volunteers transform surplus food that would otherwise go to waste into three-course meals served free to anyone who wants them.Image source, BBC/Naj ModakImage caption, White said he had formed friendships and volunteering had giving him meaning in lifeFor more than two years, White regularly turned up to evening meals on Tuesdays before deciding to volunteer."I wanted to help, because of what they've given to me over the years."He said the connection with others at the community meals had a positive impact on his mental health. "When me and my wife separated, I fell into depression. I was in a situation where I wanted to end it. "Coming to the meals got me through it, because I was chatting to the other guests and chat...