Food banks provide short-term, crisis food support for people who are struggling financially and need urgent help. 

Purpose: to provide immediate, short-term support during a financial crisis. 

Each food bank works in its own way. Many ask for a referral from a professional service, such as Citizens Advice, social services, a school, health worker, housing provider or social prescriber. Some may have different arrangements.

Support is usually time-limited and may be limited to a set number of food parcels.

Before visiting a food bank, please check the organisation’s website or contact them directly. Opening times, referral routes and availability may change.