Struggling to feed your family? Where to get help now
At a glance
- Food banks can help in an emergency — many accept referrals from Citizens Advice, schools and charities.
- Your council may have a household support or local welfare scheme for food and energy.
- Check Free School Meals and school uniform help if you have children.
- Feeding your family comes before paying credit cards or loans.
Help for families
- Child Benefit and Universal Credit child amounts.
- Healthy Start vouchers if you're pregnant or have a child under 4.
- Gingerbread offers support for single parents.
Common questions
- Do I need a referral for a food bank?
- Many do, but referrals are quick. Call us or Citizens Advice and we can point you to one.
Useful links
Want to talk it through? It's free and confidential.