Cllr Binning, who runs a Financial Planning & Advice business as well as being the elected representative on Rhondda Cynon Taf Council for Pontyclun East, will work alongside Chief Executive Andrew Butcher, the trustees, staff and Foodbank volunteers as it continues to develop and respond to increasing demand for its services.

Taff-Ely Foodbank has experienced a period of stability and growth in recent years, strengthening its organisation and expanding the support it provides to people across the local region, including launching its new Baby Bank and developing a broader community presence.

However, that growth also reflects a difficult reality. The Foodbank provides emergency food and practical support to people facing financial hardship, working closely with referral agencies, local organisations, churches, businesses and volunteers, and more local people than ever are needing help to put food on the table. In 2025, Taff-Ely Foodbank provided 3,685 emergency food parcels, including 1,464 for children, whilst demand this summer has hit levels not seen since the Covid pandemic.

Outgoing Chair Michelle Thomas has been thanked for the significant contribution she made to the Foodbank during her time as Chair.

Taff-Ely Foodbank CEO Andrew Butcher said:

“I’d like to thank Michelle for the incredible work she has done as Chair and for the support she has given me personally. She has played a huge part in helping Taff-Ely Foodbank get to where it is today, during a period when the organisation has grown and developed significantly. I’m extremely grateful for everything Michelle has done and she leaves the Foodbank in a very strong position.

“I’m also delighted to welcome Paul as our new Chair. His business experience, local knowledge and community presence will be a real asset to the Foodbank, and I’m looking forward to working with him as we continue to strengthen the organisation and support people across the region.”

Cllr Paul Binning said:

“I’m excited and honoured to be offered the opportunity to take on the role of Chair of Trustees at Taff-Ely Foodbank. The Foodbank already does hugely important work in our community, but the fact that more people than ever are needing its support is a stark reminder of the pressures many families and individuals are facing.

“It’s an important time for the organisation across a number of fronts, and I’m looking forward to working with the great team here to support the Foodbank’s work, strengthen its governance and help it continue to develop.

“I’m very grateful for the opportunity and really looking forward to the challenges ahead.”