A baby bank in Brentford has seen an increase in the number of families seeking help.

Mums, Babies and Bumps is a not-for-profit organisation set up three years ago to provide family support services.

It has been providing free used and nearly new baby and maternity clothes, toys, toiletries and equipment.

The service is run by Kim Godfrey from premises in Brentford High Street. Since the pandemic, it has not been able to raise vital funds and it needs more help.

Kim, a social worker, explained why she set up the service: "I myself have lived experience of living in poverty, I became a single parent and very quickly understood how hard it was in trying to make ends meet while trying to juggle everyday life.

"These challenging times made me aware of the strength and ability I had and how I could make a positive change to other families alike.

"I wanted to be a voice that would empower families to see the best in their efforts as parents, by providing a service that supports those in need.

"I went on to study a social work degree and was inspired by the roles I had within my placements, which I guessed in part, paved the path to where I am today.

"I have learned that families just need to be listened to, to be heard, and have support that makes their life a little easier.

"After I qualified as a social worker, I found myself wanting to create a service that enabled me to support vulnerable families, who are in need.

"I enjoy the groundwork which enables me to build relationships within my community, to bring families together so that they feel included and empowered. "

One in three London children grow up in persistent poverty, according to the Joseph Rowntree Foundation.

Kim added: "The rising housing costs, general cost of living and the two-child cap already impacted families and family life, post the pandemic.

"The recent pandemic has already started to show a slight increase in child poverty and the effects this is having on families both now and possibly in the future.

"This is partly due to families who have been furloughed, lost their jobs or have had to shield. All these factors will only push more families into poverty, and in the coming years there will be an increase in child poverty."

As well as a baby bank, the organisation provides life-coaching sessions, baby massage, yoga and sewing sessions.

Kim now needs more people to get involved and more donations.

She said: "The baby bank service is a very busy service with lots of hands on work needed, if you have some spare time and would like to get involved and want to lend a hand, please do email us to join our volunteer team."

To find out more and how you can help, donate or get help go to the Mums, Babies and Bumps website here.

Donations can be made directly HERE

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