Get Help

How to get help

If you need help from our foodbank there are a few simple steps to follow.

The most important step is to get a foodbank voucher.

In order to provide the most appropriate help for the circumstances of your situation we work with local agencies. If they feel you are struggling to put food on the table, they will issue you with a foodbank voucher. The local agency may also provide long term support if needed to help address some of the issues behind the reasons for your crisis. Agencies we work with include: Citizens Advice, housing services, childrenā€™s centres, social prescribers, social services and some local charities.

1. Choose a referralĀ agency

Contact a front-line professional support service.

Here are some agencies you can contact:

  • Citizens Advice: 01983 684684 or 01983 309309 (24/7 callback service)
  • School Family Liaison Officer
  • Visit your local GP practice / Social Prescriber
  • Family Centres (clients with children) Ryde: 01983 617617 | Sandown: 01983 408718 | Newport: 01983 529208

2. Call or visit a referral agency

They will discuss your situation and supply you with a foodbank voucher where appropriate.

If you are in financial crisis and live on the Isle of Wight, please call 01983 684684 (open Monday to Friday, 9am-5pm) to talk confidentially with a trained Citizens Advice adviser.

Alternatively, please see the list of other agencies.

3. Bring your food bank voucher to your nearest food bankĀ centre

You can find a list of our local centres and opening times here. When you arrive, we’ll welcome you with a warm drink and our trained volunteers will chat with you about your situation. We’ll also discuss any dietary needs you may have and exchange your foodbank voucher for a parcel of three days of emergency food. We’ll also help signpost you to other organisations if we can. Our foodbank hubs offer a calm environment and our aim is to provide non-judgemental support at the point of crisis.

If you have any further questions our FAQ’s page may help, or feel free to give us a call.

Still struggling?

If you call or email our foodbank we can talk through your situation and put you in touch with a relevant local agency to get a voucher.

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