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.

Family support page

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.

Resources page

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.

Family support page

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.

Resources page

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

How to donate £

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

How to donate items

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

How to volunteer

Fundraise

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

Ways to fundraise

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.

Mum of two children

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.

Referral partner

We are experiencing a massive demand for nappies, clothing and bedding at the moment. Our vulnerable families who normally have a bit of spare money to buy the essentials are now spending all their money on electricity and gas. A lot of parents are choosing not to eat so their children can be fed and keep warm.

I made a referral for a single parent who was really struggling. She has two small children, one with additional needs, plus a new baby on the way. Due to the cost of living and being in debt she was very depressed and desperate for support. She needed help with baby items, clothes and shoes for her two and four year old children. When we delivered the items, she couldn't have been more thankful and was quite emotional as these items will make a huge difference.

For a family to be able to clothe their children, give them school supplies and toiletries so they can have their basic care needs met is invaluable. Stripey Stork is a light for families in these difficult times. They always have such a wide range of products and you feel that each team member really cares and takes into account each family's specific needs.

We are supporting a number of families whose finances have been greatly affected by the cost of living crisis. Some families are now facing difficult decisions between buying food and essentials for their children or paying bills. It is so great knowing that Stripey Stork is there to help take some of the burden from these parents' shoulders.

Families are increasingly struggling with food bills and cannot stretch to new school uniforms, school shoes and changing wardrobes for the different seasons. Without the clothing packs they would have to go without food.

The Stripey Stork referral process is really straight forward. The family did not have to wait long to receive the help they needed. The school essentials which I collected really helped to improve the children's presentation at school and their self-confidence. It has also made the family realise that there is help out there.

Supporting family reunification

Sarah has a unique and special job. She works in a small team at Surrey County Council, which facilitates the safe return of children to their families. When the parent(s) are in a position to be able to welcome their

Read this story »

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Stripey Stork - Family Support. Recycled

51a Albert Road North
Reigate
Surrey
RH2 9EL

Registered as a charity in England and Wales 1161613

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