Food banks

Foodbanks are usually run by churches, charities and other community groups.

We work in partnership with the Trussell Trust (external link), which is a charity that runs one of the largest networks of food banks in the UK. They can give you up to three days' emergency food. You will usually have to have a food voucher to take with you to their food banks in order to get food.

There may also be food banks at local churches or community centres. Each will operate their own system - you may not always need food vouchers.

How do I get a food voucher?

If you are suffering extreme financial hardship it may be possible to get support from local food banks. If you would like support please call 01695 577177.  Please note, the foodbanks are struggling to provide support to those in desperate times who have no money to buy food. If you are not desperate for the support then please consider those who are.

People like social workers, and charities such as the citizens advice bureau (external link), may also be able to issue you with a food voucher.  The citizen advice bureau shop is closed until further notice but they are still available by phoning 03442 451 294.

Find your local food bank

See the food banks in Ormskirk (external link), Skelmersdale (external link) and Burscough (external Link).

The coronavirus pandemic has resulted in Ormskirk Food bank and Skelmersdale Food bank altering the system for access to emergency food for those who are unable to afford to buy their own. The priority is to ensure the safety of people requiring food and the volunteers working at the warehouse and distribution centre.   

Ormskirk Food bank are running a delivery service on Tuesdays and Fridays for clients who are referred to them.  Please go to its website (Ormskirk Food Bank) for details of agencies that can make e-referrals or call Ormskirk Food bank  on 07748 951274.

Skelmersdale Food bank are running a delivery service on Monday morning, Wednesday morning and Thursday morning for clients who are referred to them. Please go to its website (Skelmersdale Food Bank) for details of agencies that can make e-referrals or call Skelmersdale  Food bank  on 07989052832.

Burscough Food Bank - We are pleased to announce the opening of our fourth Distribution Centre at Burscough Methodist Church, Orrell Lane Burscough. This is in addition to the Ecumenical Centre, Oaks and Trinity Church. Burscough will be open every Thursday from 4th Nov 2021, between 10am and 12.00pm.