Get help
Visiting our welcome centres
We understand that things are difficult when people need to use a food bank, so we will make you feel welcome and help you as much as we can
Once you’ve spoken to the person or team who is referring you to Wandsworth Foodbank, they should give you a 10-digit referral code or a copy of the food bank voucher. This is valid for one visit.
When we receive your referral directly from the person/team, we’ll text you to let you know and to remind you of the address of your nearest Wandsworth Foodbank welcome centre.
At the food bank centre, you’ll be welcomed by one of our friendly volunteers. We’ll sit down together, and you’ll be offered free hot and cold drinks and something to eat. We want to make sure that we give you the right food to meet your needs, so a volunteer will go through the list of what’s in a food parcel with you.
Do please let us know if you have any special requirements or allergies, for example, gluten free, halal or vegetarian – or just anything you or your family really need. We also provide fresh fruit and vegetables, bread and eggs where possible.
We can help with toiletries and essentials too, including nappies, sanitary products, loo roll, toothpaste and toothbrushes. Just let us know what you need.
Free advice and support
We’ll also ask if there’s any other support we can offer to try help ease the hardship you’re facing, including:
- Confidential, expert advice and support from our Foodbank Advice Project around money worries, debt, checking you’re receiving the benefits you’re entitled to, emergency housing issues like homelessness or risk of eviction and more.
- Emergency financial help available from Wandsworth Council to Wandsworth residents, including supermarket vouchers and prepayment gas and electric vouchers.
- Wellbeing and mental health support, as we know that many people having to use a food bank can feel stressed, anxious and low. You’re not alone, and we’d love to help you access the support you need to start to feel better, including the Wandsworth WellFamily and Foodbank Service.
If you need mental health support today
If you’re struggling with your mental health today, please tell your GP or mental health support worker if you have one. You can also contact the local mental health support service called Talk Wandsworth yourself, using this short online self-referral form or by phoning 020 3513 6264.
If you need urgent support, or in an emergency, or if there is an immediate risk of self-harm or injury, please:
- Call the Mental Health Crisis Line on 0800 028 8000 (if you live in Wandsworth, Kingston, Merton, Richmond, or Sutton) – open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
- Call 111 and choose the mental health option
- Call emergency services 999
- Visit your local accident and emergency services
You can find more information here.
You can also call Samaritans free any time, from any phone, on 116 123 – whatever you’re going through.