We understand that life can be challenging. Sometimes situations are out of our control, whether due to benefit delays, redundancy, family separations, homelessness, illness, low income, unexpected large bills or for any other number of good reasons.
Please don’t go without food while you tackle these problems, we’re here to help.
Firstly, we need you to set up a referral to us but don’t worry, this is easy to do. These are our top five referrers, just have a confidential word with them by phone or in person. They will complete the necessary paperwork and email it to us.
You will receive a selection of store cupboard essentials – tins, jars and packets of easy-to-prepare and nutritious foods, including long-life milk and cereals. The range will vary according to the size of your family and whether you have any children. You will also receive fresh bread, fruit and some basic vegetables. Each food parcel delivery is designed to offer up to 5 days worth of emergency meals.Â
We can also supply emergency toiletries, sanitary protection and nappies on request. We can even help with dry pet food (for cats or dogs only).
We always deliver on a Friday morning and ask that you can be in to receive this, or if you are likely to be out then please let your referrer know a safe place for delivery. We are unable to attempt delivery more than once and we take no responsibility for deliveries you request to be left in an insecure place.
We cater for most special dietary needs on request, including alternative long-life milks, vegetarian, vegan, dairy-free, nut-free, gluten-free etc. but please ensure your referrer is aware of this need and includes it on the referral form.
We can sometimes supply baby formula if we have it in stock. However, we encourage you to speak with your health worker or GP surgery to ensure you are benefitting from the Healthy Start Scheme, designed to provide formula and food for children under the age of 4 years (https://www.healthystart.nhs.uk/)
Your initial referral could be for anything from 1-6 weeks depending on your circumstances. Your referrer may allow you to repeat this, with further support at the food bank’s discretion.Â
We hope this will help to stretch your budget and give you time to deal with the immediate situation you are facing.
If you have a food emergency, it’s likely you might need help in other ways too.
We are fortunate in our area to have a supportive community, and a large number of organisations offering help to those in need; whether it’s for benefits and budgeting advice, emergency food or health and wellbeing support.
Citizens Advice is an independent charity offering advice and information on any subject, including welfare benefits, employment, consumer problems, housing issues, relationship problems, debt and legal matters.
They are a local charity that gives people the knowledge and confidence they need to find their way forward and are also key referrers to Sherborne Food Bank.
You’ll find their offices at:
Manor House, Newland, Sherborne DT9 3JL
T: 0800 144 8848
E: advice-sher@centralca.org.uk
For opening times, visit:
https://centraldorsetca.org.uk/contact-sherborne
Money Matters advisors offer advice on a range of topics that might help you, including support with paying your bills and council tax, fuel vouchers, benefit applications and food bank referrals.
They want to make sure you are receiving the maximum income you could have, as people often don’t realise what they are entitled to.
Visit: www.magna.org.uk/money-matters/information-support-and-advice
Apply for an appointment online:
www.magna.org.uk/money-matters/money-matters-service
This one-stop community directory of places to get help is really useful. It includes food banks and other emergency food providers, support groups and clubs for all ages, mental health teams, GP surgeries and social prescribers, churches, schools, and more!
The Pod stocks a limited supply of emergency food, supported by Sherborne Food Bank, along with a community fridge with bread, fruit and vegetables. It is also a hub of information about local support groups, community projects and links to financial and practical assistance.
T: 07496 755549
E: team@thepodsherborne.co.uk
Established in 1997, the Rendezvous charity helps young people (14-25) take practical steps towards education, work, and a brighter future by rebuilding confidence, improving mental health and providing accredited learning.
The Rendezvous is also a referrer to Sherborne Food Bank.
T: 01935 814496
If you’re more than 10 weeks pregnant or have a child under 4, you may be entitled to get help to buy healthy food and milk.
Find out more at:
www.healthystart.nhs.uk