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FAQs
Here are answers to frequently asked questions:
How does my organisation make a referral to the foodbank?
Our foodbank works with a range of local agencies who meet people at risk of going hungry. Citizens Advice, community groups and health visitors are just some of those who can make refer people to our foodbank by issuing them with a foodbank voucher. If you think that your organisation could help people by referring them to our foodbank, please get in touch with us to discuss becoming a registered voucher holder.
Where is my nearest foodbank centre?
Please go to the locations page to find the address and opening times of each of our foodbank centres. Please note you must have a foodbank voucher to receive help from the foodbank. If you don’t have a voucher please contact us to find out how to get a voucher.
What’s in a typical food parcel?
A typical food parcel contains a minimum of three days of nutritionally balanced, non-perishable, tinned and dried foods that have been donated by the local community. A typical food parcel includes: breakfast cereal, soup, pasta, rice, pasta sauce, baked beans, tinned meat, tinned vegetables, instant mash, UHT milk, tea, coffee, sugar, tinned dessert and biscuits. Although some foodbanks also provide fresh produce if they are able to, we do not at present.
Can the parcel be adapted to special dietary requirements?
Our foodbank can usually adapt your food parcel to suit your dietary needs. Just let them know when you arrive with your voucher. We can provide specific parcels for a range of needs including people with diabetes, gluten intolerance, vegetarians. We will also endeavour to adapt your parcel to accommodate any food allergies you indicate.
Will the food parcel cater for my whole family?
Our foodbank will adapt your food parcel according to the number of adults and children indicated in the household on your voucher. They will also endeavour to provide foods that are age appropriate and in suitable quantities for your children. We can sometimes offer baby foods, but not SMA milk.
I have a baby, can you help with supplies of nappies and baby food?
Our foodbank usually carries a small stock of nappies and baby foods, which we can add to your parcel. Please let the foodbank know when you arrive if you need additional items for your baby. We will also signpost you to local provision of further support where possible.
What if I can’t get to the foodbank centre?
Referral agencies often provide support when their clients cannot make it to the foodbank, either collecting food on their behalf, or giving them a lift to the foodbank. Please discuss this with the agency that refers you. Alternatively, get in touch with the foodbank directly to discuss this, since our foodbank may sometimes be able to deliver your food parcel to your home, especially if you have mobility needs or are unwell.
Who runs your foodbank?
South-West Belfast foodbank is independently managed by its own steering group, with the advice and support from the Trussell Trust head office and regional support workers. It is run by volunteers from across both main communities locally. In terms of charity status, it is under the governance of Colin Glen Christian Fellowship which is registered with ‘The Charity Commission for Northern Ireland’ NIC104892.
Do you have a safeguarding policy?
Yes, our safeguarding policy can be viewed here.