Rising Demand at Hartlepool Baby Bank
The founder of a community organisation providing free clothes, toys, and equipment for children has reported that demand has "never been higher."
Hartlepool Baby Bank currently assists approximately 150 families each week, marking a tenfold increase in those seeking help since its establishment in 2019.
Challenges Faced by Families
Emilie de Bruijn, chair of the organisation, explained the difficulties parents are encountering.
"Parents can't find work that fits round children, childcare costs keep rising, people are just really struggling."
The Department for Education, which provides subsidies for childcare, has been contacted for comment regarding the situation.
Origins and Growth of the Baby Bank
The bank was founded by de Bruijn and two friends after identifying a significant need within the community.
Government statistics for 2024/25 indicate that 27% of children in Hartlepool live in absolute poverty, defined as a household income below 60% of the national average.
De Bruijn recounted the rapid growth in demand:
"We started with six families our very first week, 12 on our second, then 30, then 50 - people just kept coming,"
Support is available to anyone requesting assistance, ranging from advice to an emergency service that delivers all necessary items for the first few days following an unexpected or early birth.
Increased Needs and Referrals
De Bruijn noted that people are requesting more items than in previous years.
"We have had 139 brand new families this year, and more than 2,000 repeat referrals, that's families who we have already helped,"
"A few years ago they'd just be looking for shoes, now they need coats, they need clothes as well."
While most items distributed are donated, the organisation also purchases products such as nappies and maternity pads.
Community Support and Ongoing Needs
Donations of all kinds are welcomed, with particular need for cots, toiletries, nappies, and maternity pads, including opened packets.
"It's one family to another, it's a community supporting itself,"
"So many people who come to us are working-poor, but they are stuck in this cycle they can't get out of because of childcare costs and that means demand for our help has never been higher."
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