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Become a Referral Agent with Barnsley Foodbank Partnership

1st June 2021

If you work with individuals in crisis, you are able to become a referral agent with Barnsley Foodbank Partnership.

 

Becoming a referral agent allows you to directly book individuals in for a food parcel who are in financial hardship or crisis. We work with many referral agents, including local schools, charities and community organisations and use a voucher number system in order for the client to receive their parcel.

 

Food parcels from Barnsley Foodbank Partnership last for at least 3 days and we are able to tailor the parcel to the client’s needs, including; Gluten Free, Halal, Dairy Free, Vegetarian and any allergies. We can also include pet food, toiletries, cleaning products and nappies if needed.

 

Barnsley Foodbank Partnership Manager, Suzanne Storey says;

“It’s a really easy process when signing up to become a referral agent, in just a 10-minute phone call you will have everything you need to be able to book individuals in for a food parcel. Financial hardship isn’t just benefit-related crisis’, it could mean debt or low income too.

“Between March 2020 and May 2021, we fed over 7,700 individuals and we want to continue supporting those who need it. As we ease out of the pandemic, we should be cautious that figures will rise. This is something that we keep in mind, but we continue operating, with a team of dedicated staff, volunteers and referral agents.”

 

According to Trussell Trust figures, 95% of people referred to food banks in the Trussell Trust network are living in ‘destitution’, meaning individuals can’t afford to eat and stay warm and dry.  The average monthly household income after housing costs for people who needed to use a food bank is just £248, or £8 a day for a couple without children. This needs to cover energy and water costs, council tax, food, and other essential costs. This is just 13% of the average national income.

 

To become a referral agent, please email [email protected] or call 01226 235280.

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