In order to provide the most appropriate help for the circumstances of your situation we work with local agencies. If they feel you are struggling to put food on the table, they will issue you with a Foodbank voucher. The local agency can also provide long term support if needed to help address some of the issues behind the reasons for your crisis. Agencies we work with include: Citizens Advice, housing support officers, children’s centres, health visitors, schools, social services and some local charities.
The most important step is to get a Foodbank voucher
“Foodbank volunteers are always nice and helpful and help the best they can.” Sam
“Well, I think the Foodbank’s brilliant, it’s always helped me. At the moment my circumstances have changed due to part-time work, and I am waiting for wages. It’s nice to know there is somewhere like this that can help in the meantime." Kelly
1. GET IN TOUCH WITH US.
If you call or email our foodbank we can talk through your situation and we will put you in touch with a relevant local agency who could refer you to us if necessary.
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2. CONTACT THE REFERRAL AGENCY.
They will discuss your situation and supply you with a foodbank voucher where appropriate.
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How to get help in various languages - English, Portuguese, Russian, Somali, Arabic, Spanish, French, Hungarian, Romanian, Ukrainian & Polish.
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3. BRING YOUR FOODBANK VOUCHER TO YOUR NEAREST FOODBANK OUTLET.
You can find a list of our local outlets and opening times here.
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WHAT HAPPENS WHEN I GET TO THE FOODBANK?
Many people struggle with their first visit to the Foodbank. Please be reassured that you will receive a warm welcome, a listening ear and an environment where everyone is treated with respect and dignity.
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ON ARRIVAL
When you arrive, you will be welcomed by one of our volunteers and offered a seat, a drink and a piece of cake in our café area.
PACKING YOUR FOOD PARCEL
The volunteer looking after you will then look at your voucher, discuss your needs and your food parcel will be prepared. Your voucher will be exchanged for three days of emergency food.
Your food will be in pre-packed boxes. If you are travelling to the foodbank on foot or by public transport, please bring bags or a suitcase to help you get your food home.
You may have a bit of a wait, depending on how busy we are. This time can be used to enjoy your drink and talk to our volunteers about further help you may need to resolve your situation.
OTHER HELP & SUPPORT
If you are on a pre-payment meter then you can also use this time to apply for a FUELBANK voucher.
Our Foodbank Advice Workers are trained to listen and support you. They have local knowledge about agencies and advice services that may be able to help you resolve your crisis.
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Our Advice Workers also have knowledge about grants available for those in poverty. We have helped clients with getting, fridges, wheel chairs and clothing for children. Please ask if you are in need. You will have to disclose your financial position to these charities to qualify for help.