How you can help

Ways you can help others with the cost of living.

Volunteer

As the cost of living crisis gets worse, people in need will rely more and more on the local voluntary sector for support. If you would like to help people in your community, there are options for everyone - no matter your other commitments. Read this short guide about volunteering or watch one of our videos to hear from real volunteers.

Find out more and register to volunteer with Richmond CVS.

Donate to food banks

There are plenty of ways you can help local food banks:

• Donate money
• Donate food
• Volunteer
• Business partnership

Collect for Richmond Food Bank

If you would like to start a regular neighbourhood collection for Richmond Food Bank:

1. Get in touch with Richmond Food Bank to let them know you want to start a collection on your street
2. Let neighbours know about the collection through flyers and social media (make sure you are part of your ward Facebook group). Make sure to list items needed and collection details
3. Deliver items to Richmond Food Bank or they can arrange collection with their logistics team

Find out more about local food banks and reducing food waste initiatives:

• Richmond Food Bank
• Food for Thought (based in Heathfield)
• The Real Junk Food Project

Donate essential baby and children's items

The Extra Mile work with health professionals, social workers and charities to provide essentials for children who are in need. If you are in need of support, please contact a professional, tell them about The Extra Mile and ask them to refer you.

They always need double buggies, cots (not mattresses), highchairs with trays, nappies (all sizes) and board books, all in good condition. They sometimes need children's clothing, buggies, bouncy chairs, playmats, cot bedding, toys and books. If you would like to donate any of these, please email theextramile@hamptonmissionpartnership.org.uk.

Donate to the Hygiene Bank

The Hygiene Bank is a national organisation that through local co-ordinators collects and distributes donated toiletry and sanitary products to a wide range of voluntary and community groups working with those in need in the borough.

Donate furniture and household goods

​Richmond Furniture Scheme is a local charity that receives donated furniture, and redistributes it at low costs to those in need. They accept household furniture that is in good condition, and bric a brac, mirrors, rugs and household items.​

Support youth mental health services

You can support young people and children to access free or affordable local mental health services by donating to the Richmond upon Thames Voluntary Fund.