Get Help
FAQs
Here are answers to frequently asked questions:
How does my organisation make a referral to the foodbank?
Our foodbank works with a range of local agencies who meet people at risk of going hungry. Citizens Advice, children’s centres and health visitors are just some of those who can refer people to our foodbank by issuing them with a foodbank referral. ng a registered referrer.
How do I get a Referral?
You need to get in touch with a referrer. For a list of our referrers go to the How to Get Help page.
Where is my nearest foodbank centre?
Please go to the locations page to find the address and opening times of each of our foodbank centres. If necessary, food can usually now be delivered. Please note you must have a referral to receive help from the foodbank.
In addition there are additional locations in the area which hold emergency parcels – your referrer will be able to advise the closest location.
What’s in a typical food parcel?
A typical food parcel contains a minimum of three days of nutritionally balanced, non-perishable, tinned and dried foods that have been donated by the local community. A typical food parcel includes: breakfast cereal, soup, pasta, rice, pasta sauce, baked beans, tinned meat, tinned vegetables, instant mash, UHT milk, tea, coffee, sugar, tinned dessert and biscuits. Some foodbanks also provide fresh produce if they are able to.
More recently some of our sessions are now able to provide a selection of fruit and veg to supplement.
Can the parcel be adapted to special dietary requirements?
Our foodbank can usually adapt your food parcel to suit your dietary needs. Just let them know when you arrange your referral. We can provide specific parcels for a range of needs including people with diabetes, gluten intolerance, vegetarians and halal. We will also endeavour to adapt your parcel to accommodate any food allergies you indicate. Please tell your referrer.
Will the food parcel cater for my whole family?
Our foodbank will adapt your food parcel according to the number of adults and children indicated on your voucher. They will also endeavour to provide foods that are age appropriate and in suitable quantities for your children. We can sometimes offer baby foods, but not SMA milk.
I have a baby, can you help with supplies of nappies and baby food?
Our foodbank usually carries a small stock of nappies and baby foods, which we can add to your parcel. Please let the referrer know if you need additional items for your baby. We will also signpost you to local provision of further support where possible.
What if I can’t get to the foodbank centre?
Our foodbank or referrer may in exceptional circumstances only be able to deliver your food parcel to your home, especially if you have mobility needs, are in isolation or are unwell. Most of our sessions drop in centres where additional support and advice can be given.
Please discuss this with your referrer as we do not provide a central delivery service