Struggling to Afford Food? How to Get Help This Week
If you cannot afford food this week, help is available and there is no shame in using it. You may be able to get a food parcel from a food bank, cheaper food from a food club, and other support to take the pressure off.
Running out of money for food is more common than you might think, and there is help. Here is how to get some this week.
Get a food parcel from a food bank
A food bank gives out emergency food parcels, usually a few days' worth, for free. Many food banks ask for a referral, for example from Citizens Advice, a support worker, your GP or your child's school. Some let you refer yourself. If you are not sure where to start, an advice service or your council can point you to your nearest one.
Food clubs, pantries and community fridges
In many areas you can join a food club or pantry, where you pay a small amount for a much larger amount of food. Community fridges share surplus food and are often open to anyone. These are a good way to make your money go further, not just in an emergency.
Extra help for families
If you have children, there is more support:
Healthy Start gives a prepaid card for milk, fruit, vegetables and vitamins if you are pregnant or have a child under 4 and are on certain benefits.
Free school meals may be available if you are on certain benefits.
Many councils run holiday food schemes when school meals stop.
Emergency help from your council
Your council may be able to help with food through its emergency support scheme, sometimes as vouchers or a payment. Search for your council's name with 'crisis' or 'emergency food help'.
Look at the bigger picture
Needing food help is often a sign there is other support you are missing. A free benefits check can find money you are entitled to, so you are less likely to be in this position each week.
Where to get help
A free advice service can help you get food support quickly and check what else you can claim.
Organisations such as Hope 4U may be able to help. Eligibility is based on available location funding.
Questions people often ask
How do I get a food bank referral?
You can usually get a referral from organisations such as Hope 4U, a support worker, your GP or your child's school. Some food banks also allow you to refer yourself. An advice service can help arrange one.
Can I use a food bank without a referral?
Sometimes. Many food banks ask for a referral, but some allow self-referral. It is worth contacting your nearest food bank to ask, or asking an advice service to help.
Where can I get help with food this week?
Options include a food bank parcel, a food club or pantry, and emergency help from your council. Families may also get Healthy Start, free school meals and holiday food support.
Where can I get more help?
A free advice service can help you get food support and check what you can claim. Organisations such as Hope 4U may be able to help. Eligibility is based on available funding.
This is general information and correct at the time of writing. Food support varies by area, so it is worth checking what is available where you live.
