As a nation, we expect no one should be left hungry or destitute. Illness, disability, family breakdown or the loss of a job can happen to any of us. We owe it to each other to make sure sufficient financial support is in place when we need it most. For too many people, staying above water is a daily struggle. It’s not right that anyone is forced to turn to a food bank as a result.
People living with a disability or health condition, families with children and single parents are groups of people that have seen particularly harsh reductions in the levels of benefits they receive. Against a backdrop of increasing costs of necessities like food and housing, they’re most likely to need a food bank’s help.
While we tackle the structural issues that lock people into poverty, food banks provide the best possible emergency food and support to people in crisis.
Food banks work closely with frontline professionals in communities to identify people in need of help, and can refer people to a local food bank by giving them a food bank voucher.
Food banks in our network welcome and support everyone who is referred to them, always treating them with respect and upholding their dignity. Volunteers will give a minimum of three days’ emergency food, and offer people support to resolve the difficulties they face.
Call our free helpline
If you are in financial crisis and live in England or Wales, please call 0808 2082138 for free (open Monday to Friday, 9am-5pm) to talk confidentially with a trained Citizens Advice adviser. They can help address your crises and provide support to maximise your income, help you navigate the benefits system, and identify any additional grants you could be entitled to. If needed, they’ll issue you with a voucher so you can get an emergency food parcel from your local food bank.
