A new baby bank hub in Gloucestershire operates on an open-access model, welcoming families regardless of their financial circumstances. The Forest of Dean Baby Bank's Newent location, based at The Ark Cafe, distributes free children's essentials ranging from nappies and breast pumps to clothing and larger items such as cots sourced from a warehouse in Cinderford.
Helen Carter, the facility's lead volunteer, emphasises that no financial assessment is required to use the service. Parents frequently visit to collect items their children have outgrown while donating goods that no longer fit, creating a circular system of support within the community.
The baby bank was established in 2017 and became a registered charity in 2020, with its services expanding from basic baby essentials to include a children's clothing cupboard for ages 0–10, launched in 2018. From January to May 2026, the Forest of Dean Baby Bank supported 369 families and helped 613 children, distributing 348 clothing bundles and 192 baby bundles.
Kylie, a Newent parent on her first visit, described the service as invaluable. She explained:
It's always expensive to buy new baby things and food and nappies and wipes. So to have the support locally is wonderful.She added that while she benefits from hand-me-downs from an older child, families without that advantage face significant costs, particularly those relying on formula feeding.
The majority of items available come from donations, which Carter said the team was
really, really grateful for. Currently, autumn clothing bundles are in high demand, though volunteers have already begun assembling Christmas boxes containing festive clothing, blankets, and shoes.
Who is using the service?
Many families visiting the baby bank may not perceive themselves as struggling financially, yet the service provides meaningful relief. Carter observed:
A lot of people say, 'I don't need it, I'm okay', but then a lot of people are just sort of managing their finances and are unable to have a nice day out with their children. But if they [visit the baby bank], then they would be able to pay for that day out, so they might not think they're struggling, but it helps.
Financial pressures on families with young children are widespread. The National Childbirth Trust's latest Parent Experience Report found that nearly half of all parents reported struggling more financially after having a baby, with this figure rising to approximately six in ten among self-employed, unemployed, or part-time employed parents.
This pattern reflects broader challenges documented across similar services. A Birmingham baby bank reports growing numbers of employed parents seeking help with essential childcare costs as the rising cost of living stretches family budgets, while Hartlepool Baby Bank reports unprecedented demand, assisting 150 families weekly amid rising childcare costs and poverty.
Why do volunteers support the service?
Isabel, a volunteer at the Newent hub, chose to give back after receiving assistance herself. She said:
I know from having three small children that there is a massive need in the area, so I think this is a great thing that we're doing here. I just wish more people knew about it.Her involvement reflects the mutual support model that underpins the baby bank's operation.
What financial impact has the service achieved?
The charity's 2025 accounts reveal the scale of its operation: the Forest of Dean Baby Bank reported £50,000 in income, £38,000 in spending and more than £21,000 in direct family support, distributing 1,692 parcels during the year. This demonstrates both the resource constraints and the substantial volume of assistance provided to local families.
How can families access the service?
The Newent hub operates every Tuesday morning from 09:30 to 11:30. Families seeking additional support can contact the Forest of Dean Baby Bank helpline on 07789 465127, which is open Monday to Friday from 9am to 11am. The local council also signposts eligible families to additional assistance, including energy cost support and other essentials through the Household Support Fund.
