
Foodbank referral helps young mum who lacked support
Zofia* was referred to Blythswood’s foodbank by an Edinburgh-based mental health charity. The single mother with a daughter in primary school was struggling to come to terms with past events in her life – and with the present-day challenge of providing enough food for herself and her child.
“Our referral partners play a vital role,” says Miriam Montgomery, foodbank coordinator at Blythswood’s SE Edinburgh Foodbank. “Zofia had been attending the mental health support group and had eventually built up the courage to ask them to help her with food as well.
“She was nervous as she came in but was glad of a hot drink and the chance to chat. It was clear the issues she faced overwhelmed her. We gave her a full parcel of food and toiletries for herself and for her daughter, and as she was going to struggle to get the food home, we were able to arrange a delivery. Zofia got the supplies she urgently needed, and felt listened to, supported and befriended. She wanted to hug the team as she left.”
The foodbank team were able to put Zofia in touch with an Edinburgh charity which helps women coping with homelessness and trauma. She was able to meet with their trained staff and receive tailored support. Miriam’s team also put her in touch with a women’s worker from a nearby church who met with her and introduced her to other families in her area.
“Zofia and her daughter now seem better supported,” Miriam says. “Life continues to be difficult, but Zofia is now in a position to plan a return to her home city, where she has an established support network.”
*not her real name