Most towns now have a food bank and they are often run by churches, charities and community groups. Some also have advice workers on site who can assist with things like budgeting and reducing debt, applying for Universal Credit or benefits; appealing sanctions and other benefits related decisions.
Your council, your local Citizens Advice Bureau and local charities may also know about what other help may be available in your area. This could include things like:
Once you’ve registered with a GP, they may be able to give you a food bank referral, as can your health visitor, Jobcentre Plus, Citizens Advice, or Children’s Sure Start Centre.
The Trussell Trust runs one of the largest networks of food banks in the UK. After you have been referred to them, you will be given a voucher to exchange for food.
You’ll receive enough food to last around three days and you may also get some toiletries and cleaning products, depending on what has been donated and what you need.
You can search the Trussell Trust website to see if there is a food bank in your area: www.trusselltrust.org/get-help/find-a-foodbank/
If you can’t find a Trussell Trust food bank near you, there may be other food banks in your area, they can often be found at a local church or community centre. Each will operate their own system and you may not always need a referral.
Contact your local council and ask if there is a food bank near you and what other help may be available, or check the Independent Food Aid Network map www.foodaidnetwork.org.uk/independent-food-banks-map
If you have children you can contact your local council (usually Public Health) to learn where free holiday food and fun clubs are being provided. Their aim is to support children to eat balanced diets out of term time.
Some local restaurants and cafes and supermarket cafes now offer free or discounted children’s food and packed lunches. It’s usually if an adult pays for their own meal, so do check in advance.
If you live in a rural area and cannot afford to get to a food bank, check to see if your local food bank offers an emergency food delivery – as some do.
Did you know that Sikhs give out free food from their temples? To find your nearest temple have a look at www.sikhiwiki.org/index.php/ Gurdwaras_UK
Sikhs believe that everyone, regardless of age, religion, race, status or gender should eat together in the same place for free. The food is all vegetarian and donated to the Gurdwaras (temples). It is cooked, served and cleaned up by volunteers taking part in seva (selfless service).
Many other faith communities run soup kitchens etc.