FAQs

Where is my nearest foodbank centre?

Please go to the locations page to find the address and opening times of each of our foodbank centres. Please note you must have a foodbank voucher to receive help from the foodbank. 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. The Trussell Trust has worked with nutritionists to ensure food parcels contains sufficient nutrition for at least three days worth of healthy, balanced meals for individuals and families.

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. We can also supply other essentials such as toiletries, sanitary products, laundry powder, nappies and pet food.

If you visit our foodbank session in Chichester on Monday, we also offer fresh food from UKHarvest that you can choose whilst we pack your parcel.

Can the parcel be adapted to special dietary requirements?

We can usually adapt your food parcel to suit your dietary needs. Just let us know when you visit us or when we call you to arrange delivery. We can provide specific parcels for a range of needs including diabetes, gluten intolerance, vegetarian and halal. We will also try to adapt your parcel to accommodate any food allergies you have in your household.

Will the food parcel cater for my whole family?

We will adapt your food parcel according to the number of adults and children indicated on your voucher. They will also try 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?

We usually carry a small stock of nappies and baby foods, which we can add to your parcel. Please let the us know when you arrive if you need additional items for your baby. We will also signpost you to local provision for further support where possible.

What if I can’t get to the foodbank centre?

We may be able to deliver your food parcel to your home if you have mobility needs or are unwell. Please discuss this with the agency that refers you and get in touch with the foodbank directly to discuss this with us.

Why do I need a foodbank voucher? 

We work with local agencies and frontline professionals to identify people who need emergency food and support. By working in this way, people who need emergency food can get longer-term support if they need it. On a practical level, as a charity that relies on donations from individuals and companies, it also helps us provide emergency food parcels for everyone who needs it.

How many foodbank vouchers can I have?

Generally, we redeem up to six foodbank vouchers over a six-month period. This helps us to support as many people as possible. However, if you are struggling and you still need support. Please contact us on 01243773687 to discuss your situation.

How does my organisation make a referral to the foodbank?

We work with a range of local agencies who meet people at risk of going hungry. Citizens Advice, children’s centres and health visitors are just some of those who can refer people to our food bank by issuing them with a foodbank voucher. If you think that your organisation could help refer people, please get in touch with us to discuss becoming a registered voucher holder.

 

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