Frequently Asked Questions

How can I be referred?

If you are a parent and need help, then there are lots of local charities and organisations that can refer you to Exeter Baby Bank. This might be your GP, your health visitor, a midwife, a teacher, a volunteer at a food bank etc. If they are not yet a registered referral partner with us just tell them to get in touch and we can arrange this very quickly.

What happens after I make a referral?

Once we have received a referral from a referral partner we start to make up their requested items. If there are any items requested that we do not have, we might put a request out on Facebook for donations. Once the items are ready, we will contact the referrer to arrange a time for collection, the referral partner will then delivery the parcel/goods to the family.

How do I know what you need donating?

The easiest way to find out what we’ve been up to and what our current needs are is by liking or following us on Facebook. We put up regular wishlists and more urgent shout outs if we have a last minute order we can not fulfill.

What quality do the items have to be in?

Items must be in excellent preloved or new condition. If you would give it to your best friend, then we will take it! Cots and Prams need to be less than 10 years old and come with all the correct fixtures.

Do I need to clean the items I am donating?

Yes please. We are a small team of volunteers, and we work in a small space with little room to clean.

Do I need to make an appointment before donating?

We ask everyone to contact us before donating so we can ensure we can make the most of your donations and they are suitable for the families we help. Also due to storage we do need to cap at certain stock levels.

I am unable to deliver, do you offer a collection service?

Unfortunately at this time we are unable to offer a collection

I don’t have any baby items to donate but would still like to help. What can I do?

We are in need of lots of items beyond clothes and equipment. Perhaps you could donate packs of nappies or wipes. Or maybe some nice treats for the mums. Cash to help meet the running costs of Baby Bank Network and so we can buy items such as new mattresses, or choose something from our Amazon wishlist. We also need volunteers and fundraisers

What will you buy with cash donations?

Cash donations can help to buy items which need to be supplied new such as mattresses and bottle teats, replacement parts for donated items and items in high demand when we do not have enough donated stock.

Can I volunteer?

We are always looking for more volunteers and have a variety of roles. Please do get in touch.

You are not based near me. Where is my nearest Baby Bank?

There are Baby Banks located all over the UK. Use the link to find your nearest service: 

Find a Baby Bank near you - Stripey Stork