Project giving families with babies the best possible start in life

Baby Bank and Stafford Family Hub leaders

Hundreds of families are getting vital support thanks to the county council’s family hub and Staffordshire Baby Bank.

Staffordshire Baby Bank, a volunteer‑run organisation in Stafford, provides essential items for babies and young children across the county. Last year, it supported more than 340 families with items such as nappies, clothing, prams, cots, bedding and other necessities.

Founded in 2020, the group relies entirely on volunteers and donations from residents and businesses. Families and professionals can make referrals and all items are provided free of charge to anyone who needs them.

Melissa Palmer, Chair of Staffordshire Baby Bank, said:

“No child should ever go without the essentials they need for a healthy start in life, but rising costs are putting real pressure on families and making it harder for them to afford the basics.

“We never want families to feel alone, which is why Staffordshire Baby Bank provides essential items free to anyone who needs them, without judgement or questions.

“Since moving into the Family Hub, we’ve been able to reach and support more families than ever before.  It’s made a real difference to the service we are able to provide.”

The group moved into Stafford Family Hub in September 2025, allowing them to support more families, work more flexibly and work closer and more efficiently with the professionals who work out of the Family Hub.

Nick Lakin, Cabinet Member for Children and Young People at Staffordshire County Council, said:

“Our Family Hubs are welcoming, inclusive spaces where families can get vital help and support along with access to lots of activities and other important local services.

“It is no secret that babies and children are expensive, and Staffordshire Baby Bank is a wonderful project that helps to take the pressure off families by providing access to good quality essentials. 

“The Baby Bank is a welcoming and compassionate group, and I’d encourage anyone in need to get in touch with them, as well as anyone who may be able to donate items or is interested in volunteering.”

Family Hubs provide a wide range of initiatives and services to help give children the very best start in life. This includes early years activities and practical help for families along with support on things like parenting, infant feeding, housing and debt, childcare entitlements and more.

Hubs are located across Staffordshire and bring together different services in a one-stop shop to make it easier for families to get the help they need. 

Further details about Staffordshire Baby Bank, how to make a referral and how to donate items to the group is available at on their Facebook page. People can find out more about family hubs on the Staffordshire Family Hubs webpage.