As the cost-of-living crisis worsens, a Bedford-based charity is warning that increasing numbers of families in the borough are struggling to afford essential items for their babies and young children.
In the last year, 2,098 children have been supported by FACES BabyBank, which distributed 36,000 items of clothing, over 54,000 nappies and 1,536 tubs of formula milk.
New data published by the Baby Bank Alliance shows that baby banks across the UK supported more than 400,000 children during the last year – the equivalent of over 1,000 children every day.
Baby banks nationwide are reporting unprecedented demand for essential items such as cots, formula milk, nappies and children’s clothing, with many facing increasing pressure on their services and waiting lists for key equipment.
The national findings also highlight that the challenges facing families go far beyond financial hardship.
National trends reflected locally
The Baby Bank Alliance’s findings showed that 75% of UK baby banks surveyed identified unsuitable or insecure housing as one of the most significant issues affecting the families they support.
This situation makes it even harder for parents to provide a safe and stable environment for their children.
These national trends are reflected locally with FACES BabyBank providing thousands of essential items to families experiencing hardship in 2025.
Over the course of the year, FACES BabyBank distributed cots, prams, Moses baskets, highchairs, bedding, baby equipment and many other essential items that help give children the best possible start in life.
The charity says demand continues to grow, with more families requiring support over longer periods than ever before.
While many families previously needed one-off assistance during a temporary crisis, repeat referrals are becoming increasingly common as rising living costs, housing instability and financial pressures continue to impact households across the borough.
Michaela Martindale, CEO of FACES, said: “Every week we meet parents who are doing everything they can to provide for their children but simply cannot make their income stretch far enough.
“We are seeing demand continue to rise, and increasingly families are returning to us more than once because the financial pressures they face are not easing.”
Reflecting the national picture, Michaela said that one of the biggest issues affecting the families the charity supports is housing.
“Many are living in temporary accommodation, overcrowded homes or unsuitable housing where they have little space for essential baby equipment,” she said.
“These challenges have a significant impact on children’s wellbeing from the very beginning of their lives.”
Meeting the growing needs
As the needs of the community grow, FACES is finding it increasingly difficult to meet the levels of demand.
“We are incredibly grateful to our community, volunteers and supporters for their generosity,” said Michaela.
“Every donation of clothing, nappies, baby equipment or financial support makes a real difference and helps ensure that no child goes without the essentials they need.”
FACES BabyBank relies entirely on donations from the local community, businesses and grant funders to continue providing free essential items to families in need.
The charity is encouraging anyone who is able to donate good-quality baby equipment, children’s clothing, nappies, or make a financial contribution to help ensure support remains available for local families facing hardship.
You can find out more about FACES at their website here.
