Foodbank Vouchers

As a foodbank voucher issuing agent, the main role of Havering Volunteer Centre is to act as a referral point for residents in financial hardship who need emergency food support. Rather than operating a foodbank itself, it works alongside Havering’s three Trussell Trust foodbanks and helps eligible residents access them.

When a Havering resident is struggling, they can contact Havering Volunteer Centre on 01708 922214. Staff will:

  1. Take basic details about the household and circumstances.
  2. Assess the person’s immediate needs.
  3. Decide whether an emergency foodbank voucher is appropriate.
  4. Issue a voucher and explain where and how it can be redeemed.

Vouchers are generally issued following a telephone assessment and there are limits on how many vouchers can be issued through the Trussell Trust system this is 3 within any 6 month period. If someone has reached the voucher limit, the centre will still be able to signpost to alternative support services.

HVC partners with all three Trussell Trust foodbanks in the borough:

  • Collier Row & Romford Foodbank
  • Harold Hill Foodbank
  • Rainham Foodbank

Its role is to provide the referral and voucher-issuing function, while the foodbanks themselves store, manage and distribute food parcels to clients.

Collier Row & Romford Foodbank

This foodbank serves the Romford and Collier Row area and operates distribution centres in Romford and Collier Row. It was established in 2012 and is now overseen by RBC Community Care. People who receive a voucher from Havering Volunteer Centre may be directed here if it is the most appropriate location for them.

The Romford Foodbank is open on Monday and Wednesday 12pm – 2pm with Collier Row open Friday 12.30pm- 2.30pm

Harold Hill Foodbank

Based in Harold Hill, this foodbank is part of the wider Trussell Trust network and provides emergency food and support to people referred in crisis. Havering Volunteer Centre can issue vouchers that are redeemed there.

Harold Hill Foodbank is open Monday – Friday 10.30am – 1.30pm

Rainham Foodbank

Rainham Foodbank serves residents in the south of the borough and, in addition to emergency food parcels, offers a range of wider support services such as advice, advocacy and debt support. Vouchers issued by Havering Volunteer Centre can be used to access food assistance there.

Rainham Foodbank is open Monday, Wednesday and Friday 12pm- 3pm with Fresh Food Fridays (no voucher required) Friday between 9am – 11am