How do I use food banks?

1. Get a food bank voucher
   To receive items from a food bank, you will usually need a voucher. Vouchers are usually provided by professionals like doctors, social workers, or local support agencies. They will take a look at your situation and give you a voucher if they think you need emergency food assistance.
   
   You can also contact our financial inclusion team for help getting a voucher.
   
   
2. Find your nearest food bank
   After you have got a voucher, find the nearest food bank. The Trussell Trust has the largest network of food banks in the UK.
   
   You can also ask community groups on social media or search online to find independent food banks in the local area.
   
   
3. Visit the Food Bank
   Once you have your voucher, take it to the food bank and they will provide you with a food parcel that should include essential food items.
   
   What an emergency food parcel could include

• Tinned meat (meatballs, hot dogs etc.)
• Tinned fish (tuna, sardines etc.
• Tinned fruit
• Tinned veg (tomatoes, sweetcorn, peas etc.)
• Tinned meals (curries, chilli, pasta etc.)
• Tinned soup
• Tinned fruit
• Rice/lentils
• Cereal
• Biscuits
• Pasta and pasta sauce
• UHT milk
• Coffee
• Long-life juice
  
  You could also get toiletries and personal hygiene items such as soap, toothpaste, diapers, and sanitary products.

Food banks are not supposed to be used for the long term. It is important to reach out for financial support if you need it.