Not sure which type of food support is right for you, or how to refer someone? We're here to help you navigate the options.
Emergency food is vital — but it is only part of the picture. The Leeds Food Aid Network believes in helping people address the deeper causes of food poverty: debt, poor health, unemployment, addiction, and a lack of access to support services.
We encourage all food providers across the network to signpost vulnerable people to key services, and to develop on-location support where organisations are visibly present on site.
Resilience Tool Kit for Food Providers ↗
Whether you're facing a short-term emergency or longer-term food insecurity, we can help you find the right support. Food banks, pantries and drop-ins are available across Leeds — many require no referral.
You don't need to be in a formal crisis to ask for help. If you're struggling to afford food, there is support available for you.
Find Food Near MeSocial workers, healthcare professionals, schools, community workers and housing organisations can refer clients to food support through our network.
We can advise you on appropriate referral routes, what to expect, and how to signpost individuals to the most suitable type of support.
Contact Us for ReferralsSelect a category to find organisations operating in Leeds who can help with dealing with vulnerable people's longer-term needs.
Healthy Start vouchers help pregnant women and families with young children buy fruit, vegetables, milk and vitamins. Find out how to access them in Leeds.
Healthy Start in Leeds
Debt and welfare issues are among the most common underlying causes of food poverty. Find free advice services in Leeds that can help with benefits, debts and money management.
Debt & Welfare Support
Addiction can be both a cause and a consequence of food poverty. Find support organisations in Leeds offering help with alcohol, drug or gambling problems.
Addiction Support in Leeds
Access to education and training can open up employment opportunities and provide a sustainable route out of poverty. Find courses and support in Leeds.
Education & Training in Leeds
Poor mental health and food poverty are closely linked. Find mental health support services in Leeds — from crisis support to longer-term talking therapies.
Mental Health Support in Leeds
Leeds NHS services work alongside community organisations to support people whose health is affected by poverty, including social prescribing and wider health services.
NHS Leeds Provision
Free nutritious meals and activities for children and young people across Leeds during school holidays — part of the Food Wise Leeds programme.
Healthy Holidays on Food Wise LeedsFood banks provide free emergency food parcels for people in crisis, usually accessed through a referral from a partner organisation such as a GP, school or social worker.
Food pantries are low-cost community shops where members can buy quality food items at significantly reduced prices. Most require a small annual membership fee and no referral.
Food drop-ins offer hot meals or ready-to-eat food in a community setting, open to anyone — no referral or membership required.
It depends on the type of support. Food banks typically require a referral, which can come from a GP, school, social worker, Citizens Advice or other support organisation.
Food pantries and food drop-ins generally do not require a referral — you can just turn up during opening hours. Check each location's details on our Find Food page.
If you're unsure or need help getting a referral, contact us and we'll point you in the right direction.
Completely. Many people feel this way, and it is entirely understandable. Food insecurity can happen to anyone — it is not a reflection of your worth or your choices.
Everyone who works in our network is there to support you, without judgement. You are welcome and deserving of help.
If you're a professional working with someone in need, you can issue a food bank referral voucher. Many food banks in the LFAN network accept referrals from GPs, schools, housing associations, Citizens Advice and social services.
If you're unsure of the referral process for a specific location, contact us and we'll help you identify the right pathway.
Yes. Food banks, pantries and drop-ins in our network do not require proof of citizenship or immigration status. Food support is available to everyone in need living in Leeds.
If you have concerns or need specific advice, please get in touch and we will do our best to help.
There are several ways to get involved beyond donating food:
You can volunteer your time at distribution points, make a financial donation, or spread the word about the support available in your community.
If you work in a relevant sector, consider becoming a referral partner so you can connect the people you work with to the right support.
We work with a wide range of organisations across Leeds to coordinate food support.
NHS trusts, GPs, mental health services and social care teams who refer patients and clients to food support.
Primary and secondary schools, colleges and universities supporting students and families experiencing food insecurity.
Housing associations, community centres, libraries and neighbourhood organisations embedded across Leeds.
Want to become a referral partner, list your organisation, or have any questions?
Our team is happy to help you get connected with the right support.
Get In Touch