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Visiting a foodbank
In order to keep our volunteers and clients safe, we have introduced a new appointments-based system. Under the new system, a voucher can only be redeemed with an appointment.
“The volunteers at the foodbank were so lovely, they listened to me and made me feel human again. It was the first place I didn’t feel judged.”
We know that crisis can strike anyone and we also understand how difficult it can be to think about walking through a food bank door. That’s why our volunteers aim to welcome everyone who comes to the food bank with compassion and kindness. However, the way we operate is a bit different now.
Before you visit
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.
Meeting your needs
Your food bank voucher will be exchanged for three days of emergency food. We want to make sure that we give you the right food to meet your needs, so when you book your appointment 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.
Your visit
We ask that you wear a face covering when visiting the food bank. We also ask that you bring your own bags to carry your food home in. In order to keep our clients and volunteers safe, there will no longer be an opportunity to sit down and have a cup of tea; clients will collect their parcel and leave within their time slot.