Get help
The most important step is to get a Foodbank voucher.
In order to provide the most appropriate help for the circumstances of your situation we work with local agencies. If they feel you are struggling to put food on the table, they will issue you with a Foodbank voucher. The local agency can also provide long term support if needed to help address some of the issues behind the reasons for your crisis.
​1. Contact a referral agency
They will discuss your situation and supply you with a
foodbank voucher where appropriate.
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There are many agencies in the local area that can support you with a foodbank voucher, including: Citizens Advice, housing support officers, children’s centres, health visitors, schools, social services, GP surgeries and some local charities.
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You can also contact one of the following agencies:
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Local Crisis Prevention Fund (LCPF):
lcpf@bristol.gov.uk / 08009230101 - open Mon-Fri, 9-12.
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Help Through Hardship:
08082082138 - open Mon-Fri, 9-5
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One Stop Shop (South Glos Residents only):​​​​
01454868009 - open Mon-Fri, 9-4.30
How to get help in various languages - English, Portuguese, Russian, Somali, Arabic, Spanish, French, Hungarian, Romanian, Ukrainian & Polish.
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2. Visit your nearest foodbank outlet
Once you have received a referral, please visit the foodbank listed on your voucher. If you are unable attend that outlet please contact us, or you can find a list of our local outlets and opening times here.
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What happens when you get to the foodbank?
Many people struggle with their first visit to the Foodbank. Please be reassured that you will receive a warm welcome, a listening ear and an environment where everyone is treated with respect and dignity.
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On arrival
When you arrive, you will be welcomed by one of our volunteers and offered a seat.​ The volunteer looking after you will then look at your voucher, discuss your needs and your food parcel will be prepared. Your voucher will be exchanged for three days of emergency food. While you wait, you can have a drink and a piece of cake in our café area.
Packing your food parcel
Your food will be in pre-packed boxes. If you are travelling to the foodbank on foot or by public transport, please bring bags, a suitcase or an extra pair of hands to help you get your food home.
You may have a bit of a wait, depending on how busy we are. This time can be used to enjoy your drink and talk to our volunteers and advice workers about further help you may need to resolve your situation.
3. Other help and support
Our Foodbank Advice Workers are trained to listen and support you. They have local knowledge about agencies and advice services that may be able to help you resolve your crisis.
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Our Advice Workers also have knowledge about grants available for those in poverty. We have helped clients with getting, fridges, wheel chairs and clothing for children. Please ask if you are in need. You will have to disclose your financial position to these charities to qualify for help.
Please note:
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We can only accept one referral for your household per week.
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You must get a new referral each time you need to visit the foodbank.
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We can only provide short term support for a few weeks, but our advice workers are available to support you in other ways to help you get back on your feet.
Well, I think the Foodbank’s brilliant, it’s always helped me. At the moment my circumstances have changed due to part-time work, and I am waiting for wages. It’s nice to know there is somewhere like this that can help in the meantime.