Rising Demand for Support from Family Charities

A Jersey-based charity is experiencing a surge in demand for its services as more young families seek support with essential baby items.

Baby Basics – Jersey, part of a UK-wide network, helps new parents struggling with the financial pressures of having a baby. Since launching 18 months ago, the charity has been working closely with midwives, health visitors, and other local organisations that refer families in need.

As demand continues to rise, the charity is appealing for more donations, including baby toiletries, nappies, wipes, and clothing for young children. In particular, it has highlighted the need for neutral-coloured outfits and clothes for baby boys under a year old.

The increase in referrals has been significant, with requests for help rising from a few per month to multiple referrals each week. The charity has received funding to provide essential items such as Moses baskets and baby beds, but the demand for good-quality pre-loved clothing remains high.

Local parents have stepped up to support the initiative, with one Jersey mother, Stephanie Poll, donating her child’s outgrown clothes to help families in need. She emphasised the financial challenges of raising children and expressed hope that services like Baby Basics – Jersey could ease the burden on struggling parents.

Family Nursing and Home Care (FNFC), one of the organisations that refer families to Baby Basics – Jersey, also plays a role in distributing essential support packs. FNFC representative Cat Burke praised the effort that goes into assembling the baskets, highlighting the impact they have on local families.

The charity, based at St Mark’s Church, continues to welcome donations in person and through its Amazon Wishlist, ensuring it can meet the growing demand for its services.