The cost of living crisis

With rising food costs, and high energy bills, many families are feeling the pressure at the moment, but for those who were already struggling it’s particularly tough. Many are having to make unthinkable choices between food, heating and nappies. Increasingly, the families being referred to us are from working households, but with the cost of living being at an all-time high, their wages are no longer enough.  

Our vital service of supporting Surrey families with practical essentials for their babies and children is needed more than ever. But, we know that families may need help across a range of fronts, so we’ve put together the following information to signpost families and professionals to further resources if they need them.

What support is available...

SUPPORT FOR FAMILIES

If you are struggling to find the money to pay for food, clothing, bills or debts, you are not alone. See our dedicated page which categorises and lists the different types of support available.

RESOURCES FOR PROFESSIONALS

If you are a professional supporting families, we know there may be other types of help that they need other than the support we can provide. See our dedicated page of useful resources.

SUPPORT FOR FAMILIES

If you are struggling to find the money to pay for food, clothing, bills or debts, you are not alone. See our dedicated page which categorises and lists the different types of support available.

RESOURCES FOR PROFESSIONALS

If you are a professional supporting families, we know there may be other types of help that they need other than the support we can provide. See our dedicated page of useful resources.

How you can help

Donate money

We realise that times are incredibly hard, but if you are able to spare a contribution then we promise to make a difference

Donate items

We take the items your family no longer need and recycle them back into the community to those who really need a helping hand

Donate time

Whether you can volunteer on a regular or ad-hoc basis, as an individual or part of a group, we’d love to hear from you

Fundraise

A great way to help us raise our profile and secure income needed to help local families in need

What we're hearing

The stories we’re hearing from referral partners when they pick up items is harrowing. We’ve even been contacted by some of the families we’re supporting to express both their gratitude and relief.

I used to be able to keep a little money aside for emergencies. That doesn’t happen now. The gas and electric keep going off, and everything costs more. It’s so hard to find enough money for what the kids need.

Families are telling us they are only able to fund having the heating on for short periods of time. One mother and 18-month-old have mould in their rented accommodation and are having to sleep on a mattress on the floor in the living room as this is warmer and safer for the child.