Food Banks. Have you used one? How does it work?

[Flyingtree]

I know I am going to need to use this service over the school summer holidays and for the first time ever. I don't even have £4 in my bank and it's already the first day of school holidays. I don't have access to credit.

I have read that you need to be assessed by a panel including a social worker, health worker, psychologist!! Is this correct? Has anyone used a food bank and can tell me of their experience?

Thankyou

Not got any experience sorry, but really, really didnt want you to go unanswered. Do you think it would be worth getting in touch with your local food bank? Is there anything else in your area too. My mums church does a family meal once a week for a pound. They're not even bothered if you don't have the £1. Might be worth asking on MN local

Ring your citizens advice bureau in the morning and ask, or ring a food bank local to you. Here is a site for an organisation that runs food banks in lots of different locations across the uk and if you don't feel like phoning their email address is on that page too www.trusselltrust.org/how-it-works

How are you getting on now flying?

Any proffesionals health or social can refer you also your local church.Once you have been referred the food bank assesses your need For example how large your family is what access you have to cooking facilities etc.A few food banks can also deliver.Usually you can only get one parcel in a set period however if you have a genuine need that is easily demonstrated they are far more flexible.It may be worth contacting the cab for help any way they may be able to direct you to emergency funds.Remember it's not a crime to be poor.

No you don't have to go before a panel! That would be awful, you need to ask at job centre, health visitor , doctors surgery etc

You need to be refered. Do it as soon as you can. I'm sorry you are in this situation. It's disgusting in this day and age in this country.

Flying pm me

FrameyMcFrame

Update:

A small community support grant has been awarded now which paid for a mahoosive £120 food shop which will last us two months at least! I know my situation will improve soon, but Thankyou everyone for your replies and messages, it feels nice to know there are genuinely caring people out there. I'be had a lot of bad luck in the last several years - a really, flamin' lot- and it's clearly not over yet, but I'm getting there.

to everyone x