How do I get a referral to a Food bank?

It varies foodbank to foodbank, so the answer to the question, ‘how do I get a referral to a foodbank?‘, depends where you are and what your personal situation is, but in the UK, most foodbanks require a referral to access their services. This process ensures that help is directed to those in genuine need and connects individuals with additional support if necessary. Here’s how to get a referral to a foodbank:

Step 1: Speak to a Referral Agency

To get a referral, you need to contact an agency or professional who can assess your situation. Common referral agencies include:

• Citizens Advice: They can provide advice on financial difficulties and issue a foodbank voucher if needed.
• Your GP or healthcare provider: Doctors and other health professionals can make referrals, especially if your situation affects your health or wellbeing.
• Social workers: If you’re already in contact with social services, they can refer you to a foodbank.
• Schools and family support services: Schools can refer families struggling to provide meals for children.
• Jobcentres: If you are unemployed or experiencing issues with benefit payments, your local Jobcentre may refer you.
• Local councils: Many councils work with foodbanks and can offer referrals through their welfare support teams.
• Charities and community organisations: Organisations that work with vulnerable people often have the authority to issue foodbank referrals.

Step 2: Explain Your Situation

When you contact a referral agency, they will ask about your circumstances to determine your level of need. Be prepared to share details such as:

• Your financial situation.
• Reasons for your hardship (e.g., unexpected bills, benefit delays, or job loss).
• The size of your household, as this determines the amount of food you’ll receive.

The process is straightforward and designed to ensure you get the right help without being intrusive or overly complicated.

Step 3: Receive Your Referral

If the agency determines that you need support, they will provide you with a referral. This might be in the form of:

• A physical voucher: You’ll need to take this to your local foodbank.
• An electronic referral: Some foodbanks use digital systems to process referrals directly.

The referral will include details about the foodbank, such as its location, opening hours, and what you need to bring with you.

Step 4: Visit the Foodbank

Once you have your referral, visit the foodbank to collect your food parcel. When you arrive:

• Volunteers will welcome you and guide you through the process.
• You’ll receive a parcel tailored to your household’s needs, providing enough food for around three days.
• Some foodbanks may also offer additional support, such as signposting to debt advice or other services.

Emergency Assistance

If you need urgent food and cannot get a referral immediately, contact:

• Citizens Advice for emergency advice.
• Your local council to see if they have an emergency food provision scheme.
• The foodbank directly: Some foodbanks can provide emergency food parcels without a referral in exceptional circumstances.
  
  

I need help from a foodbank – how do I get a referral?

The referral system exists to ensure foodbanks can provide targeted help to those in need. If you’re unsure where to start, your local Citizens Advice is a good first point of contact, as they can guide you to the right agency and help you with a referral.

Using a foodbank is not a permanent solution, but it’s there to support you during difficult times. Don’t hesitate to seek help if you need it.

Did you have another question about food banks? See all our FAQs.