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FAQs
Here are answers to frequently asked questions:
Is the food bank operating in the same way as before coronavirus?
The way we operate is a bit different now. As usual you will need a food bank voucher before visiting us. Under our new system, when you receive your food bank voucher, the referral agency will book you a time slot to visit the food bank. This will allow our volunteers to prepare your parcel of three days of emergency food in advance, and limit the number of clients visiting at once, keeping everyone safer. We will only be able to provide you with a food parcel if you have an appointment, even if you have a voucher.
How does my organisation make a referral to the food bank?
Our food bank works with a range of local agencies who meet people at risk of going hungry. Islington Council, local housing associations and Help on Your Doorstep are just some of those who can make refer people to our food bank by issuing them with a food bank voucher. If you think that your organisation could help people by referring them to our food bank, please get in touch with us to discuss becoming a registered voucher holder.
Where is my nearest food bank centre?
Please go to the locations page to find the address and opening times of each of our food bank centres. Please note you must have a food bank voucher and an appointment to receive help from the food bank. If you don’t have a voucher please contact us to find out how to get a voucher.
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.
Can the parcel be adapted to special dietary requirements?
Our food bank can usually adapt your food parcel to suit your dietary needs. When you book your appointment through your referral agency, you will be asked if you have any special dietary requirements or allergies, for example, gluten free, halal or vegetarian. You will also be asked if you need any extras such as toiletries or pet food. As our volunteers will be preparing your parcel in advance, no new requests will be taken at the centre.
Will the food parcel cater for my whole family?
Our food bank 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 food bank usually carries a small stock of nappies and baby foods, which we can add to your parcel. Please tell the referral agency if you need baby supplies when they book your appointment so that we can add these to your parcel in advance. No new requests will be taken at the centre.
What if I can’t get to the foodbank centre?
Unfortunately Islington Foodbank does not offer delivery services.
