The Lord Mayor of Exeter

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4. The 2026-2027 Lord Mayor’s Charity

Baby Bank Network Exeter

Registered Charity No: 1180848

To find out how to support the Lord Mayor's Charity, Baby Bank Network Exeter.

Baby Bank Exeter has been operating since 2018, it collects donated new and pre-loved baby items and distributes them, free of charge, to families in or facing financial difficulties, referred to us by health care professionals and local organisations. Our baby bank is rooted in and shaped by the local community at every stage. The service is delivered by local people for local families, with community involvement central to how we operate and respond to need. We have an amazing team of volunteers that give up their time weekly to support our work.

We provide essential items during the critical early years, ensuring babies and children have what they need for a safe, healthy start in life. By working in partnership with over 450 healthcare and early years professionals, families are identified and supported early, helping to prevent small issues from escalating and supporting children’s wellbeing and development from the very beginning. We know that by building firm foundations at the earliest possible time a child can be set up for life, not just in early development but throughout their entire education, career opportunities, future relationships and health outcomes.

By providing essentials like formula milk, nappies, warm clothes, and a safe place to sleep, these children can have their basic needs met.

Our service allows families to redirect limited income towards food, heating and other essentials. So not only does it support the children through their early years, the impact on the parents/carers mental wellbeing is huge. The relief of financial burden can reduce stress, anxiety and tensions, creating a more positive home environment.

In 2025 we supported 1,200 children, a 20% increase on the previous year, highlighting the growing demand for our service and the need to raise awareness and funds to continue to operate and serve our community."