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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, children’s centres 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 referrer.

When can I get a food parcel?

We are open Monday-Friday for delivery across the area, and open at Shaw Salvation Army 11-1pm on Mondays.

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, or visit our how to. Please note that our service is mainly delivery only, so please check with your referrer before going to a foodbank centre in this area.

What’s in a typical food parcel?

A typical food parcel contains 7 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. We can also provide fresh produce on some occasions where available.

Can the parcel be adapted to special dietary requirements?

Our foodbank can usually adapt your food parcel to suit your dietary needs. Please let your referrer know when you talk to them. We can provide specific parcels for a range of needs including people with diabetes, gluten intolerance, vegetarians and halal. We will also endeavour to adapt your parcel to accommodate any food allergies you indicate. Please be aware that we haven’t got access to every type of food, so there may be times when we can’t provide everything you have asked for.

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 on your voucher. They will also try to provide foods that are age appropriate and in suitable quantities for your children. We can sometimes offer baby foods/baby formula also, but will depend on what’s available at the time.

I have a baby, can you help with supplies of nappies and baby food and other items?

Our foodbank usually carries a small stock of nappies and baby foods, which we can add to your parcel. Please let the foodbank know if you need additional items for your baby. We also have a small stock of toiletries, household items and pet food, but again can’t guarantee we will be able to provide all or any of these items at the time you get your referral. We will also signpost you to local provision of further support where possible.

What if I can’t get to the foodbank centre?

Oldham Foodbank will deliver your parcel to you if you live in the Oldham area.

 

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