Referring families to The Bridge
The Bridge is a new community space offering practical support for families in Elmbridge who are struggling with the rising cost of living but have limited support available to them.
“I can’t afford it all by myself. My wages aren’t stretching as far and we’re starting to get into arrears. There is lots of stuff the government is putting out there but I’m not eligible for it. It’s very hard.”
Our community shop-without-a-till offers families the opportunity to pick-up food and household supplies at no cost, bringing down weekly shopping bills and freeing up money for other essentials like utility bills and school uniforms.
When is it open?
Initially, the shop-without-till is open each week Tuesday and Thursday from 10am to 12pm, and Wednesday from 10am to 12pm and 4pm to 6pm. It is currently only available to families who have a referral and have pre-booked an appointment. Unfortunately, people cannot turn up without a booking.
Who is it for?
At the moment, the shop is open to working families (with children under 18) who are struggling financially and who cannot access government, or other, support. It is also for those who are going through a change in their financial circumstances (eg, just lost a job) and are waiting to receive government support.
It is primarily for families living in Walton and Hersham as it is linked to the Walton & Hersham foodbank. It is not for single people or couples.
How is The Bridge shop different to the foodbank?
The Bridge is not an emergency service. If a family needs food in an emergency they should be referred to the foodbank through the usual referral system.
If you’re unsure whether to refer someone to the foodbank or The Bridge, please contact Nina at info@waltonhersham.foodbank.org.uk or Suzy at bridge@waltoncharity.org.uk.
How to make a referral
If the family meet the above criteria, you can make a referral using the form below. (Please note, this page is not publicly available)
If the referral is accepted, The Bridge team will contact the family directly and arrange a time to visit the shop. After the first visit, the team will book in the next visit for a fortnight’s time. Families can visit the shop up to six times over three months.
After the six visits, the family will need another referral.
Please complete the referral form below for each family you would like to refer. Please also ensure applicants are aware how their data will be used (see the Fair processing notice below).