The Dartford Children and Young People’s Mental Health Service (CYPMHS) run a weekly foodbank to meet the additional needs of families they provide care for.

Established shortly after COVID-19, the team run the foodbank every Friday from the Twistleton Court centre. Staff go the extra mile and fund the foodbank themselves with a monthly collection and medical secretary, Etta McAteer, buys all the provisions.

Items in high demand include not only food but also personal care products such as shower gel and sanitary items. The foodbank is used more frequently during the school holidays when the children are home.

Isaac Igwe, Integrated Team Manager at Dartford CYPMHS, said:

"I’m very proud of my team for working together and giving so generously to ensure that the foodbank could continue. The project is a community engagement outreach programme that has enabled our service to reach out and connect with the diverse communities we serve in another way other than attending to their mental health needs."

The Children and Young People's Mental Health Service (CYPMHS) provides emotional wellbeing and mental health advice and support for young people and their families across Kent. Find out more about the service here: Kent & Medway Children & Young People's Mental Health Service (CYPMHS) | NELFT NHS Foundation Trust