Baby banks across the United Kingdom have witnessed a 30% surge in demand over the past year, according to a new report, underscoring the deepening poverty crisis affecting families with young children.
Rising reliance on baby banks
The study, conducted by the charity Baby Banks UK, found that more than 250,000 families sought help from baby banks in 2025, up from 192,000 the previous year. These organisations provide essential items such as nappies, formula milk, clothing, and baby equipment to families in need.
"We are seeing families who never thought they would need our help," said Sarah Jones, director of Baby Banks UK. "The cost of living crisis has pushed even working parents to the brink."
Impact on children and families
The report highlights that nearly one in four children under the age of five in the UK now lives in poverty, a figure that has risen sharply since 2020. Baby banks are increasingly becoming a lifeline for families struggling to afford basic necessities.
"Parents are making impossible choices between buying food and buying nappies," Jones added. "Baby banks are filling a gap that should not exist."
Regional disparities
Demand varies significantly across the country, with the North East of England seeing the highest increase at 45%, followed by Wales at 38%. London and the South East reported a 22% rise, reflecting the impact of high housing costs.
The report calls for urgent government action, including an expansion of the child benefit system and increased funding for family support services. It also recommends that baby banks receive official recognition and financial support to meet growing demand.
Government response
A spokesperson for the Department for Work and Pensions said: "We are committed to tackling child poverty and have invested billions in cost of living support. We are reviewing the report's findings and will continue to work with charities to ensure families get the help they need."
However, critics argue that current measures are insufficient. The charity Save the Children UK said the rise in baby bank use is a "national disgrace" and called for an emergency package to support families.
