Food banks
If you cannot afford to buy food and need emergency items, there are a number of food banks in Brent that may be able to support you:
- The Trussell Trust
- Sufra NW London
- Ansar Youth Project
- Mutual Food Aid Willesden
- Granville Community Kitchen
- Brent Food Aid Network
- Helping Hands (Shree Swaminarayan Temple Willesden)
If you are more than 10 weeks pregnant or have a child under 4, you may be eligible for Healthy Start Vouchers, which help towards the cost of some fresh foods.
In addition your school-aged children may be eligible for Free School Meals.
Help with food
If you are struggling to get food for yourself or your family, please contact you local hubs, where an application can be made for food support through the Crisis Support Fund if you are eligible.
Free vitamins
Free vitamins are available for all pregnant women and children under 4.
Young children and those who are pregnant, and breastfeeding may not be getting enough vitamin A, C and D in their diet. Taking vitamins can help to support your baby develop in the womb and keep your body healthy during pregnancy and while you are breastfeeding.
Free vitamins are available to collect from Best Start Family Hubs in Brent.
Free reusable nappies
Brent residents can now apply for a £50 voucher to help cover the cost of reusable nappies or a trial paid-for laundry service.
By making the switch, you can:
- cut down on household waste
- save around £772 over two and a half years
- help protect the environment by reducing single-use nappies, which are packed with plastic and often end up in landfill or incineration
- join a supportive community of parents sharing tips and experiences.
Find out more and claim your voucher.
Household essentials
There may be ways you can reduce the cost of other bills, such as your Broadband and TV.
It is estimated that around 15 million people are out of contract with their broadband, meaning they are needlessly paying over the odds for this service. Have a look on a price-comparison website to see what you could save.
Some broadband providers offer discounted rates (social tariffs) to customers on a low income. Ofcom have compiled a list of providers who offer discounted rates and their eligibility requirements.
To ensure you choose the right provider, check which network has the best coverage at your address.
If you are in extreme financial hardship and do not currently have access to the internet or a digital device, you may be eligible for a free digital package through our Resident Support Fund.
You may also be eligible for a TV license discount or concessions if you:
- are aged over 75
- live in a care home
- are blind
How to reduce food waste
On average, a typical family throws away £60 worth of food every month. For some great tips on how you can reduce food waste visit Love Food, Hate Waste.
You can also download From Brent to Bowl. This community cookbook by Brent residents and budding chefs promotes using up leftovers and reducing food waste.
The charity StepChange provides advice on how you can save money on your weekly food shop.
