Families across Newent, Gloucestershire now have access to a new resource: the Forest of Dean Baby Bank, which began operating from The Ark Cafe with a uniquely inclusive policy. The initiative does not require means testing, so any family—regardless of income—can receive a variety of free essentials for their children. Additionally, the baby bank encourages those able to contribute to share gently-used items their children have outgrown to assist other families in the area.
New support hub for the community
Helen Carter, who oversees the volunteer team at the baby bank’s new site, stated that an extensive array of supplies is currently available. Parents can find essentials such as baby wipes, breast pumps, swimwear, hats, and more. Those in need of larger items, including cots, may request these—volunteers will organise collection from the warehouse in Cinderford. Carter stressed the inclusive nature of the service, saying it is “open to everybody” and confirming that there is no means test or eligibility check at any stage.
Carter shared, “Parents not only come by to pick up what they need, but many also leave behind clothing and items their own babies have outgrown. The generosity we see in these donations is what keeps so many families going.” There’s particular demand right now for autumn clothing packs, and volunteers are also assembling festive boxes—containing festive clothing, blankets, and shoes—in anticipation of the Christmas period.
Helping parents cope with rising costs
Many local parents are already expressing their appreciation for the launch of the baby bank, especially given increasing costs for essentials such as clothing and daily baby supplies. Kylie, a resident of Newent, remarked, “New baby things, food, nappies and wipes all add up to quite a lot of money, so this local support is fantastic.” Though she can pass some items down from her oldest, Kylie pointed out that families who cannot or who rely on formula feeding must spend much more.
Carter emphasised just how valuable the resource can be for those “just managing.” She explained, “Sometimes, visiting the baby bank frees up a little of the family budget, meaning parents may be able to give their children treats, such as a day out, which otherwise wouldn’t be possible.”
The necessity of services like this is reinforced by recent findings from The National Childbirth Trust’s Parent Experience Report: nearly half of all parents say that financial hardship has increased after having a child. Among self-employed, unemployed, or part-time working parents, this figure rises further to approximately six in ten.
Volunteer-led efforts and shared community spirit
The baby bank’s operations rely on volunteers like Isabel, who has three children and first-hand experience of receiving community assistance through food parcels and clothing donations. Isabel commented, “There’s a big need around here for what the baby bank offers. I’m glad we’re able to do this—I just wish more families knew it was available.”
Those interested can visit the Forest of Dean Baby Bank at Newent every Tuesday morning from 09.30 to 11.30. The project is designed to address immediate needs for baby- and child-related essentials, but also seeks to nurture a culture of generosity and mutual help among local families.