Support with food costs for families

With everyday costs rising, many families are finding it harder to afford food. There is support available across Surrey to help ease the pressure.

Page contents

• Financial support and cost of living help
• Food support
• Days out on a budget
• Advice, skills and employment support

Financial support and cost of living help

Crisis and Resilience Fund

The Crisis and Resilience Fund (CRF) supports people on low incomes facing sudden financial difficulties and helps communities build long‑term stability. Surrey County Council and partners are currently developing how this support will be allocated. Find out more on the Surrey County Council website.

Cost of Living hub

Find information on financial, health and welfare support on offer in Surrey.

Great British Summer Savings

The UK Government announced on 20 May 2026 a new initiative, Great British Summer Savings,  a UK-wide scheme to help families enjoy this summer which includes free bus travel and reducing tariffs on everyday food items.

Food support

Alongside financial support, help is also available if you’re struggling with food costs.

Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) Camps in Surrey

The Government funds local authorities across England to run fully-funded Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) camps. These are known as Club4 in Surrey. These camps are only for children who receive benefit-related free school meals.

Food banks and Community Fridges

Food banks and Community Fridges are there for anyone struggling to put food on the table — there is no stigma in using them. Visit the Connect to Support Surrey website and search “Food banks” to find local help.

The Trussell Trust

Over 1,200 food bank centres across the UK offer at least three days of emergency food and support. Visit the Trussell Trust website for details.

Woking Community Grocery

The Woking Community Grocery is a low‑cost social supermarket offering affordable food for local residents. Membership is £5 per year, and members can shop weekly from £5, choosing from over 100 essential items.

Reducing food waste

The Surrey Environment Partnership provides tips, recipes and advice to help you save money and cut waste.

Days out on a budget

There are also plenty of low-cost ways to keep families entertained this summer.

Budget‑friendly family days out

Surrey’s countryside offers free outdoor adventures, from play trails to accessible walking routes. Visit Surrey lists free and low‑cost events and activities happening across the county.

MoneySavingExpert

A trusted source for up‑to‑date deals and tips, including:

• Kids eat free or cheap - Where can kids eat free
• Restaurant vouchers and 2‑for‑1 deals - Restaurant vouchers: top deals and 2 for 1 offers
• Low‑cost and free family activities - Things to do with the kids

Advice, skills and employment support

Surrey Family Information Service

The Surrey Information Service offers free, impartial advice on childcare, services, organisations and local events. Search the Family Information Dictionary for support in your area.

Skills, Training and Employment Portal (STEP)

STEP Surrey provides free, tailored advice to help residents find work, learn new skills and access employment support.