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.

We know that anyone can find themselves at crisis point for a number of different reasons. Our Food Bank works on a referral basis which means that you need to contact a local organisation to get a food bank voucher.  The local agency can also provide long term support if needed to help address some of the issues behind the reasons for your crisis. Agencies you can get a referral from include: Citizens Advice, housing support officers, children’s centres, health visitors, social services and some local charities.

How to Get a Food Bank Voucher

You can get a food bank voucher from any professional that is currently supporting you. This includes support workers, social workers,  probation workers, or doctors.

Referral agents will discuss your situation and see if there is any further support they can give you. This could include navigating the benefits system, advice on debt, or help with housing issues. If needed, they can also issue you a food bank voucher. Please discuss any dietary requirements with the referral agency so we can make sure that your parcel is suitable.

In an emergency, please contact your local council’s emergency 24 hour number. In Manchester, call 0161 234 5001.

You can contact one of the referral agents below to get a food bank voucher. Alternatively, please get in touch with us for more advice about how to get a referral.

Citizens Advice

Citizens Advice is a free advice line. They can help address your crises and provide support to maximise your income, help you navigate the benefits system, and identify any additional grants you could be entitled to. If needed, they’ll issue you with a voucher so you can get an emergency food parcel from your local food bank.

Open: Monday- Friday 9am-5pm

Contact: 0808 278 7800

Please read more here

Help Through Hardship 

Help Thru Hardship is a free help line.

Open: Monday- Friday 9am-5pm

Contact: 0808 208 2138

Please read more here

St. Johns Community Hub (Trafford residents only)

Open: Monday – Friday 10am-4pm

Contact: 0161 872 7795

Address: St John’s Centre
St John’s Road
Old Trafford
Manchester M16 7GX

Please read more here 

Whalley Range Community Forum 

Open: Monday – Friday 9:30am-4pm

Contact: 0161 8813744

Address: 82 Cromwell Avenue, Manchester M16 0BG

Please read more here 

If you are not sure which of these referral agents are best for you please do not hesitate to get in touch with us

Referral agencies

If you are a referral agency and would like to become a registered voucher holder for our foodbank, please contact us to find out more.

BRING  YOUR FOODBANK VOUCHER TO YOUR NEAREST FOODBANK CENTRE. 

You can see a list of our local centres and opening times. When you arrive, we’ll welcome you with a warm drink and a snack whilst the volunteers prepare your food parcel. We’ll also help to support you in any other ways that we can. Our Food Bank is a warm space and has a free cafe where you can get refreshments, snacks, and advice for your situation.

If you have any further questions our FAQ’s page may help, or feel free to get in touch with us

 

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