Get Help
FAQs
Here are answers to frequently asked questions:
How do I get a referral for a food parcel?
We accept referrals from a number of local agencies, including Citizens Advice Bureau, Wokingham Borough Council, Salvation Army, churches, children’s centres and health visitors. If you are not in contact with any of these we suggest you call Citizens Advice on 0808 278 7958.
How does my organisation make a referral to the foodbank?
If you think that your organisation could help people by referring them to our foodbank, please get in touch with us to discuss becoming a registered referral agency.
Where is my nearest foodbank centre?
Please go to the locations page to find the address and opening times of our foodbank centres.
Please note you must have a foodbank referral to receive help from the foodbank. If you don’t have a referral please contact one of the agencies described above.
What’s in a typical food parcel?
A typical food parcel contains a generous three days supply of nutritionally balanced, non-perishable, tinned and dried foods that have been donated by the local community. A typical food parcel includes: breakfast cereal, soup, pasta, rice, pasta sauce, baked beans, tinned meat, tinned vegetables, instant mash, UHT milk, tea, coffee, sugar, tinned dessert and biscuits. The parcel also contains toiletries, sanitary products, toilet rolls and, when available, cleaning materials.
Can the parcel be adapted to special dietary requirements?
We can usually adapt your food parcel to suit your dietary needs. Just let them know when you arrive with your voucher. We can provide specific parcels for a range of needs including people with diabetes, gluten intolerance, vegetarians and halal. We will also endeavour to adapt your parcel to accommodate any food allergies you indicate.
Will the food parcel cater for my whole family?
Our foodbank will adapt your food parcel according to the number of adults and children indicated on your voucher. They will also endeavour to provide foods that are age appropriate and in suitable quantities for your children. We can sometimes offer baby foods.
I have a baby, can you help with supplies of nappies and baby food?
Our foodbank usually carries a small stock of nappies and baby foods, which we can add to your parcel. Please let the foodbank know when you arrive if you need additional items for your baby. We will also signpost you to local provision of further support where possible.
What if I can’t get to the foodbank centre?
Please discuss this with the agency that refers you. If you are genuinely unable to get to us we may be able to deliver to you at a defined time. If you are not in when a delivery is made it will be returned to our base and scheduled for re-delivery at a later date.