Citizens Advice Charnwood advises about using Food Banks

I’m stressed about being able to afford food for my family as the colder months set in. We will be spending more on heating, and we’re barely making it through as it is. Can I use a food bank if I need to?

It’s understandable to be worried about affording food when you’re in a tough spot financially – especially with the cost of your bills rising. You’re not alone, as we help lots of people in this position.

Food banks are community organisations that can help if you can’t afford food, or if you need emergency food, but you’ll sometimes need a referral before you can use one. You can get a referral for yourself and any family members you live with, including your partner.

If you need help from us to access a food bank ring our Enquiry Line 01509 649605 and ask to speak to one of our Advisers. They can tell you what is available locally and discuss your situation and ask you some questions to check you’re eligible. We can also check if you should be getting any benefits you’re not currently claiming and can assist with budgeting and tell you about other local help you could get.

You can ask another organisation if you need a referral, for example your GP, local council, housing association or social worker. If the food bank is run by a church or other religious group, they’ll still help you if you’re not religious or from a different religion.

When you are referred to a food bank you will be given a voucher and told where the food bank is – be sure to check if the voucher is only valid on a specific day. When you visit the food bank let them know if you have any allergies or dietary requirements – they should be able to help you. You’ll get a food parcel and it will usually contain enough food for three days and you might also be able to get essential toiletries, like toothpaste or deodorant.

You’ll need another referral if you have to use the food bank again. Some have a limit on the number of times you can visit, but it’s still worth asking. If you’re in this situation talk to one of our Advisers about your ongoing needs. They’ll refer you to the food bank if they agree it’s the best way to help you.

You can use food banks without a referral, for example if it’s run by a church or community group. The easiest way to find out if you need a referral is to contact your local food bank.

More information about accessing food banks can be found on the Citizens Advice website – https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/debt-and-money/food-bank/using-a-food-bank/

Food banks in the Charnwood area:

Referral required:

Trussell food banks located in Loughborough and Syston

Loughborough email: loughborougharea.foodbank.org.uk tel. 07495 561408 https://bit.ly/4aIAPwR

(Leicester South) Syston Hub

Tel. 07912 194783 https://leicestersouth.foodbank.org.uk/locations/

No Referral required: The Soar Valley Outreach run food banks in 8 villages between Loughborough and Leicester

Tel. 07743 765958 email: soarvalleycma@gmail.com https://soarvalleyoutreach.org.uk/food-projects/

Shepshed Food Bank

Tel. 07594 639668 email: info@shepshedfoodbank.org.uk https://shepshedfoodbank.org/