When money is tight and the cost of raising children continues to put pressure on family budgets, it can be hard to know where to turn.
As mum Marisha shares in our film, reaching a point where you need support can happen quickly, because of changes at work, rising household costs or unexpected challenges.
Accepting help - including from baby banks or food banks - can be an important step towards feeling more secure.
"It's because I got the help that I no longer need the help. I found my feet." - Marisha
Watch Marisha's story of financial struggle, support and recovery
"I did not think, after landing my 'adult job', I would then be needing help from baby banks, food banks and vouchers." - Marisha
What is a food bank?
A food bank is a service that provides emergency food and essential household items to people who are struggling to afford enough food.
Food banks collect donations from local communities, like tinned food, pasta, rice, toiletries and other everyday essentials.
Food banks are not designed to replace a household income, but they can provide an important safety net during difficult periods.
What is a baby bank?
Sophie Livingstone MBE, chief executive of Little Village, a London-based baby bank, says they're 'the baby version of a food bank', but are about much more than simply providing items.
“It’s about passing on all those things children outgrow so quickly, and making sure they go to another family who really needs them,” she explains.
Baby banks collect good-quality items that babies and young children need, like clothes, toys, nappies, cots and buggies. These are then passed on to other families.
“It’s practical help, but it’s also about reminding families that they’re not alone,” says Sophie.
"I felt a lot of mum guilt over not being able to provide everything I needed to." - Marisha
How do baby banks work?
“Everything we give out has been donated by families in the community,” Sophie says. “Volunteers carefully sort through those donations, checking they’re clean, safe and in great condition.”
“When a referral comes in, we pack up bundles that are tailored to each child. The right sizes, the right items, everything thought through with real care.”
She adds, “What goes out isn’t just a bag of things. It’s something that’s been put together with dignity and kindness at its centre.”
How do I access a baby bank or food bank?
If you think your family could benefit from support, you do not have to work it out alone.
Many baby banks work through referrals from professionals who already support families, like health visitors, social workers, local charities, or, like Marisha, your midwife.
This means parents can often access support through someone they already know and trust.
Sophie says accessing support should not feel like a daunting process.
“Accessing a baby bank isn’t something you have to navigate on your own, even though it can feel daunting at first,” she explains.
“None of this is about jumping through hoops. It’s about making sure help gets to you in the easiest and most supportive way possible.”
"I was a bit nervous the first time I went to a food bank, I didn't know what people would think of me." - Marisha
Can anyone access a baby bank?
Baby banks are there for families who need some extra help, whatever their circumstances might be.
Some may be facing a sudden change in income, while others may be dealing with ongoing financial pressure.
Sophie says there should be no judgement around asking for help.
“Our job is simply to meet them with kindness and practical support, and to help them feel a little bit more secure.”
"I never anticipated I would be in that situation." - Marisha
How can I donate to a baby bank or food bank?
There are lots of ways to support a baby bank or food bank.
You could donate clothes your child has outgrown, a pram you no longer need, toys, nappies or other baby essentials. Financial donations can also help organisations provide what families need most.
“I always think of it as giving your child’s things a second life,” says Sophie.
Volunteering is another powerful way to help. From sorting donations to preparing bundles, volunteers are a key part of making these services work.
Asking for help is a sign of strength
For parents facing financial difficulties, accepting support can feel overwhelming, but baby banks and food banks exist because communities understand that families sometimes need extra help.
Whether it is a bag of essentials, a food parcel, or simply knowing that someone is there to support you, these services can provide practical help and reassurance.
As Marisha’s story shows, asking for support can be an important part of moving forward. It can help families feel less alone and remind parents that support is available when they need it.
"If I didn't go through everything that I went through, I don't think I would be as resilient a mum." - Marisha
The Baby Bank Alliance have a map where you can find a baby bank close to you.
