- Conference
- 2026 National Women's Conference
- Date
- 15 October 2025
- Decision
- Carried
Conference notes there has been an increased need for the vital services baby banks around the UK are providing to women and families in vulnerable situations and serious need.
Baby Banks, supported by the Baby Bank Alliance, receive donations of essential items for babies and children and pass them on for free. They are a lifeline for families who need help, providing women with support, and children with the items they need to thrive.
The Baby Bank Alliance report that:
• Last year saw 220,000 families reached, a 25% increase from the previous year.
• 3.2 million essential items distributed — 151% more than in 2023, with a value of around £70 million.
• 155,000 referrals handled — up 35%, continuing a year-on-year rise since 2021.
The cost of living is a gendered crisis, with women holding 69% of low-paid and insecure jobs, the worry and sacrifices being experienced are widespread and disproportionate.
The impact of the cost-of-living crisis will be felt for years to come as it is exacerbating the existing outcomes of entrenched gender inequality and this is being seen in the staggering increase in need for baby banks.
Likewise, food banks have seen a worrying increase over the past 15 years, from 60,000 food parcels distributed to 3 million per year and there is concern the same increase will be experienced with Baby Banks without intervention.
Conference calls on the National Women’s Committee to:
• Work with Regional and National Labour Link to call on Labour Councillors and MPs to commit to finding better ways to support women in need before they reach a critical point.
• Work with There for You to produce information and awareness on other sources of help for women with financial difficulties.
• Report back to Women’s Conference 2027
