Who we are
The Hackney Children & Baby Bank provides families in need within Hackney and surrounding boroughs with essential items. Our core work is to provide children’s clothes, coats and shoes, toys and books, toiletries, nappies and baby equipment like buggies, Moses baskets and highchairs.
Our story
Our story began in June 2020, as an emergency response to local families’ needs during the pandemic. Beautine Wester, a paediatric nurse, educator and passionate advocate for families and children, saw that families were isolated and had limited access to help during the pandemic.
We started life as the E5 Baby & Family Bank, a small group of volunteers offering clothing packs and baby equipment to families in need. Today, the Hackney Children & Baby Bank is a registered charity with its own premises, a dedicated team and a network of fantastic volunteers, providing valuable support to thousands of children.
Our Impact
Since 2020, we've helped over 5,000 children and their families. Our families face a wide range of challenges; many are single parents, have fled domestic violence or faced homelessness. Other families are refugees or asylum seekers, facing the challenge of rebuilding their lives with limited support.
As well as providing essential items, we partner with local organisations and signpost our families towards other advice and support they can access.
We host events like summer parties, school holiday activity days, outings and information sessions, such as financial management workshops and support sessions for parents.
Looking ahead
Our vision is to continue expanding our reach and support. We plan to reach more families in crisis, build stronger partnerships, and create a permanent space where families can easily access help.
Recognising Our Achievements: 2021 Mayor's Civic Award
In 2021, we were honoured to receive the Mayor of Hackney's Civic Award for the impact our team has made on the lives of families in Hackney.
“But this year, more than ever, Hackney’s unsung heroes have gone above and beyond to provide support to some of the most vulnerable people in our communities.
Despite facing challenges themselves as a result of the pandemic, their first thought has been about how they can help others - and I was honoured to join some of these incredible and inspirational people to thank them for their selfless work."
Former Mayor of Hackney, Philip Glanville
