I NEED HELP
HOW TO GET A REFERRAL
Dartmouth & District Friday Hub works on a referral system. This means another professional organisation who know you could refer you to us.
So, how do I get a referral?
Due to your financial/caring situation, you are likely to already talking to an organisation about your situation. You can ask them if they would refer you to us via our website. Referrals are required to ensure we help those who need help.
Once referred, this gives you a pass for 6 visits. This does not have to be weekly. The 6 visits will last for a year before expiring.
What to do when my allocated food parcels are near ending?
If after 3-4 sessions, you still think you will need access to our Food Bank you will need to get another referral for another 6 visits. We suggest you arrange to see/talk to a professional as that may take a week or two due to arrange an appointment. We strongly suggest you DO NOT leave the referral until the allocated 6 visits have finished.
What happens at the end of my 6 visits if I do not have another referral?
We are sorry but we will not be able to help without a new referral, so please plan to get another referral in time.
How does my professional refer me to you?
They complete a simple form on our website here, email us or we can send a form to them if they email us – dartmouthfoodbank@gmail.com
Who can refer me?
Care agencies, Housing Officers, Citizens Advice, Health Professionals – District Nurses, Community nurses etc, Youth and Community workers, Homestart UK, Job Centres, Department Work & Pensions, Social Workers, School or nursery welfare, doctors etc
What do I get and how much for my visit?
The bag will have enough for 2-3 days of meals. For example, cereal, pasta, rice, tinned or fresh vegetables, tinned meat and/or fish, milk, desserts, tea bags or coffee, toilet roll.
Please bring a bag when collecting. This helps keep our costs focused on buying food.
Is there anything else to know?
We normally get from supermarkets and/or donors (fresh or tinned) or near sell by date items. These are available at each session subject to availability. You can help yourselves to up to half a bag of what’s on the tables.
What do I do with anything I do not like?
Please return it unopened to the returned goods table at our Friday sessions. We are always grateful for any returns.
Can I get some food if I do not want to get a referral?
As long as you can prove to us a benefit or government pension you could buy one of our bags for 50% or supermarket cost. See Facebook page for more information.