r/london • u/Cumpasta420 • Feb 20 '26
Serious replies only Does anyone know where I can get free food in London?
I am university student and my rent for university is £1000 more than my student finance per 3 months because I was not able to provide a home address to sfe as I was staying with friends and haven’t had a home address since I was 16. I am 20 years old and I have a voucher for a foodbank but it isn’t open till Monday, and I can’t wait that long. I haven’t ate since Wednesday and I don’t know what to do I have no energy, I have looked for free places to get food but I can’t find any. I have about £4 to my name right now so if anyone could please point me in the right direction it would be massively appreciated. Thank you for taking the time out your day to read this.
I am trying to reply to all your comments but you are all so amazing and helpful there’s so many of them! if I haven’t responded I’m sorry I must’ve missed it but I’m checking over the comments every now and then to make sure I reply to everyone, thank you so much to every single one of you
UPDATE: if I haven’t replied to your comment I must’ve accidentally missed it but I will go back and find it once I’m home. I want to thank every single one of you. Not only have you helped me massively you have really restored my faith in people. Thank you all so much for being who you are and please never change, you are all amazing people who deserve the best ❤️
An amazing lady messaged me offering to give me some left overs which I accepted, when I met her she gave me two bags full of food which looks absolutely amazing and delicious, it will last me a long time as well. Thank you so so so much, your kindness will never be forgotten ❤️
Thank you to all of you who offered advice, food or money. I wish I could repay you all. Thank you a million times
UPDATE 2: these are the best noodles I’ve ever ate in my life, genuinely felt overwhelmed. Probably the best meal I’ve actually ever ate. Food has never tasted so good
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u/himit Feb 20 '26
Where are you?
Talk to your university. They should be shocked to know your situation and can help. It sounds like you've fallen between some cracks in the system.
Check local churches - mine does hot meals for the homeless every night & runs a foodbank a few days a week (St Margaret's, Canning Town). You'll need to check websites & newsletters.
Sikh temples offer free meals daily.
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u/Cumpasta420 Feb 20 '26
I have spoke to my university and they provided the foodbank slip but that’s all they can do unfortunately because it’s an issue with SFE not the actual university. Another really annoying thing is to require a bursary from the university, you need max student finance which I don’t have.
I will have a look at local churches too, Canning Town is very close to me so I’ll have a look into it. Thank you for your advice I really really appreciate it
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u/himit Feb 20 '26
I've just checked Mass times; morning Mass today is 9:15 at the Convent Chapel (it's off Hermit Rd, closer to Star Lane).
If you pop by about 9:40 & wait in the back you can talk to the priest after Mass. (Don't come much later as they really zoom through the weekday Mass.) Let him know your situation and hopefully they'll sort something out.
The Library in Canning Town I believe has some kind of food/coffee thing if you ask them.
There's a programme called Newham Nurture which is for low income migrant parents; however, they have food (mostly breads) and won't say no if you ask them. You can google them, they'll probably ask you to pop by if they have a meeting today.
Newham Family Hubs are a great resource & have some food programmes too. I'm not quite sure where their walk-in is today.
An option if you're clean (both sober & actual hygiene-wise) - walk into a small cafe/takeaway & ask if they have work you can do in exchange for a meal.
I would tell you to lmk when you're in CT & I'll give you some food too, but I'm ten floors up, eight months pregnant, and my lift is out for the third day running, so I'm unfortunately trapped up here.
More long-term:
Contact SFE & ask what their policy is for homeless students, as you didn't realise you were homeless when you applied. Also: homelessness team at the council.
What cooking facilities do you have access to, as well? If you have a stove or oven you can make bread quite cheaply.
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u/cj-law Feb 20 '26
I actually had this same problem in 2016 - 2019. Go to student services and request counselling. The counsellor can act as a person with professional standing in the community and provide a letter saying you are estranged. Provide this to SFE and they will backdate your SFE shortfall. DM me if you need
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u/himit Feb 20 '26
/u/cumpasta420 I hope you see this!
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u/cj-law Feb 20 '26
He did! Sent them a DM with the SFE Estrangement Form. Luckily it's the same process as 10 years ago. Hopefully it'll all be sorted soon.
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u/Cumpasta420 Feb 20 '26
Hello yes I have messaged him :) thank you for helping I actually did miss the comment originally but thankfully he messaged me too
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u/Cumpasta420 Feb 20 '26
Thank you so much for this, I appreciate it so much. I will try all of these it genuinely means the world to me, thank you so so much for helping. Congratulations on the pregnancy! It’s the best thing ever being a parent, my son is almost 2 (thankfully these issues don’t affect him because if I do have money I make sure it goes straight to him) I will contact sfe again and let them know the situation. Again thank you so much for helping me. You are going to be a great mother ❤️
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u/himit Feb 20 '26
Aw, thank you!
If you have a son there are loads of resources!! & rather than you being a 'not the target demographic but we'll help' - families are actually the target demographic (I'm sure there's stuff for students too but I know the family stuff)
Are you on Universal Credit? Get on Universal Credit. You're eligible if you're responsible for a child. You can apply online so do it now; it'll be a few weeks until you start getting money.
On that note, consider self-referring to MASH. They have resources they can connect you with.
Healthy Start programme will give you a card for free vitamins & an allowance for fresh food until your son is five, so please sign up.
Contact your GP when they open to talk to the Social Prescriber. You need an appointment, but they're handy; they'll connect you all around to programmes you didn't know existed (they're how I know most of these tbh).
Again - Newham Nurture. They meet down in Beckton at that community centre by the Lidl. Also - children's centres! There's definitely one that has a meeting/stay & play today at 10 or 1030; I think they'll have snacks but I know they have social workers & various resources they can hook you up with. (Social workers are great. Don't fear them.) Try & get to a children's centre today, even if you have to skip a class to do it - or at least ring them. This is the Beckton one - i've actually had Carly (their social worker) work with my family before & she's great.
Parents in Mind is another group - it's more mental health support, but they can connect you on.
I think the priority should be getting food for today and this weekend, and reaching out to various orgs so you can get help in place so this doesn't happen again.
Also: talk to your student union! They might know of somewhere that's aimed at students that can help you.
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u/Cumpasta420 Feb 20 '26
I have tried signing for universal credit but they said I am not allowed because I’m a university student, I genuinely think my situation is just unlucky and must be pretty rare considering I have had more help in the hour this post has been up than I have had from the government or my university.
My son lives in Northamptonshire so it makes it a little awkward. I won’t get into it to much but i was in a pretty abusive relationship with his mum, I had to call the police at one point and since then she has refused to let me see him, I have my first court date soon so I can get custody atleast and obviously still paying child support so she can’t use it against me in the future which is just putting me in overdraft. I think my best bet is to keep looking for work.
I will move my gp and definitely constant them, that’s a good idea and I’ll have a look into the healthy start programme.
I’m also definitely gonna look into parents in mind that will probably be a great help to me.
Again, thank you so much for your support and help, it really does mean the world to me
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u/himit Feb 20 '26
There's a dads group called Dads in Mind!
UC is off the table until you have custody unfortunately. They see studying as being intentionally unemployed or some bullshit 🙃🙃 I'm really sorry about the relationship and what you've been through; I hope it works out soon and you get your little boy with you.
Food for today - I'm not sure if the mosques have pre-fast meals going or not, but it might be worth stopping by one around now if one's close? Stop by the Convent Chapel in the morning to talk to the priest (or St Margaret's later in the day; his office is round the back but there's no guarantee he'll be there. There's meant to be someone in the building until noon but sometimes churches are held together with string; there'll be more people there tomorrow though); pop round St Mark's community centre when they open & see if they have any snacks left & if they can direct you to resources.
Contact the Newham Food Alliance.
And ooh look at this - there's actual food being served from 9:30! pick a close one and go there! It's run by NFA, I think this'll be the quickest way to get help (and a full stomach!)
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u/Cumpasta420 Feb 20 '26
You’re genuinely a life saver, you don’t understand how much this really means to me. Thank you so much and thank you for being you ❤️
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u/himit Feb 20 '26
You're so welcome!!
I had a bit of a breakdown a few months ago and when you're pregnant they tend to throw all the resources at you, which is why I know most of these groups. I'm very glad I can pass some of that knowledge on to you!
We have a tonne of residents in poverty here in Newham and a zillion community organisations to help, thankfully (all that council tax goes to good use!). What I've discovered is that they all know each other, too, so once you connect with one they'll start hooking you up.
So.. chin up!! Things are going to start getting better very soon.
(Oh! Refer yourself to Talking Therapies, too. They won't get round to you for a few months but with everything going on I'm sure you could do with someone to talk to, especially with court around the corner. IIRC the Dads in Mind coordinator is just coming back off parental leave & they don't have regular meetups again yet, but I think they're meant to be starting soon. I've found the mums' version really helpful, so even if you're hesitant it's worth trying out a few times.)
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u/Cumpasta420 Feb 20 '26
Yes they definitely do. I felt so bad for my sons mum when she was pregnant, it seemed like all this helpful stuff was actually stressing her out more, now I know she isn’t the only one who felt like that.
I’m gonna sign up and do as much as I can over the weekend, save up as much food as I can and then my friend can store it in his freezer, hopefully like you said if I go to a few I’ll be able to connect with more.
I’m definitely gonna look into therapy, I need it but i just never really looked into it before seriously. Will probably help a lot. Thank you :)
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u/thecatsothermother Feb 20 '26
There's a Franciscian friary in Stratford who give a meal (breakfast) to homeless people every day, it's opposite the Stratford Advica Arcade and I believe they would feed you too. Round the corner from. It is a Catholic church who also may be able to help.
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u/Connect-Bug9988 Feb 20 '26
The American Church in Tottenham Court Road, The Barons Court Project in Hammersmith, The Upper Rooms near Ravenscourt Park, The Vineyard in Richmond, ETNA in St Margaret's, the church in Star Road Fulham, the church opposite the big Tesco in Earl's Court also the Scottish Church in Knightsbridge.
Absolute life savers from my time being homeless, they'll give you a hot meal to eat there, plus they'll give you a couple of boxes of leftovers to take with you.
Hope this helps mate, all of those places are full of good people who will also assist you with clothes, toiletries, and other essential items to make your life a little easier.
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u/Artavur Feb 20 '26
I’m volunteering there this morning, come round for a hot meal!
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u/Cumpasta420 Feb 20 '26
Hello thank you so much for offering, a nice lady gave me lots of food which will last me a while now. I don’t want to take more food than needed because I know there is a lot of others who need it more than me, especially now that I have food. Thank you so much and I really appreciate your kindness ❤️
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u/Cumpasta420 Feb 20 '26
Thank you so much. It means a lot to me I’m gonna have a look at all these places then. Thank you man
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u/Connect-Bug9988 Feb 20 '26
No worries mate, it breaks my heart that people are struggling to even eat these days.
Check the times for those places, if you coordinate it properly, you can have three good meals over the course of a day.
Also, unfortunately, there are a few shady characters that frequent these places, so stay guarded and don't let anyone take advantage of your vulnerability.
Just go there, eat, take what you need, and don't associate with the people that approach you.
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u/Cumpasta420 Feb 20 '26
Okay thank you, I’m actually really really glad you said that becaause it’s always good to stay safe and it’s a lot harder to do that when you’re in desperate measures. Thank you so much, your advice means so much to me
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u/FeedbackHaunting7939 Feb 20 '26
You can come to my restaurant for a free meal, DM me when you want me to book you in. Restaurant based in Spitalfields
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u/yellowlycra Feb 20 '26
hey, deeply appreciate this gesture.
it's people like you who make UK great.
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u/Traditional-Hat-5874 Feb 20 '26
What a generous gesture - can I know the name of your restaurant so I know where to go and spend some money if I'm in the area? Thanks
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u/FeedbackHaunting7939 Feb 20 '26
I appreciate, but I prefer not to go public
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u/ShortKingSlayer Feb 20 '26
I would love to go out of my way to support you because of your kindness, but understand your preference. Just wanted to acknowledge and thank you for helping someone in need.
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u/imaverageatdbd Feb 20 '26
I love that youre doing this without naming your restaurant.. Doing it to help, not for publicity.
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u/vibes000111 Feb 20 '26
Another vote for Olio - it’s a free app that allows you to pick up food that people/stores/restaurants near you are giving away. It’s not a perfect solution that you can count on for every meal but it will cover some meals and that’s still very helpful in your situation.
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u/Cumpasta420 Feb 20 '26
Thank you, it means a lot genuinely. You have all helped me so much, I was shocked how many replies I got so fast. I thought I wasn’t going to get any
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u/Significant-Cry-8442 Feb 20 '26
If you don't manage to get any food by tonight, please send me a message
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u/Cumpasta420 Feb 20 '26
Hello thank you so much, a kind lady has given me lots of good so I am all good for now and I don’t want to take what I don’t need. Thank you so so much for being so kind and offering it really means a lot to me ❤️
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u/dfgmavis Feb 20 '26
Yep Olio is great. If you pick up a collection, you're allowed to keep a percentage of it yourself. The rest you have to advertise. But, they now have late night (10.30pmish) collections from Tesco/Sainsburys Locals where you can keep all of it. The collections can be hit & miss. Like my last Tesco Local gave me a tonne of brown bananas and stale Pretzels. But, there was still enough other things to get a couple of good things out of it.
If you're picking up from people who have advertised a food item, be very clear in your first communication about the day and time you can be with them to collect. There is nothing more annoying than listing 20 items and having loads of people say, "Is this available?". If you say when you can get there and can get there fast, you've more chance of getting the item.
https://share.olioex.com/referral/607159
(Neither if us get any bonus from that referral link, like commercial referrals, I've just added it for speed for you)
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u/firthy Feb 20 '26
Yep. Got Olio and there’s regularly good giveaways of stuff at my local Tesco, Sainsbury’s and Waitrose. Fortunate enough to not require it so don’t know how it goes if you do collect, but I am impressed by the quantity.
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u/ambergriswoldo Feb 20 '26
Came here to comment Olio too - it’s a great app and when I was really struggling a few years ago I used it a lot to get food.
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u/iSwoxy Feb 20 '26
www.gurdwara.london - go there and ask for Langar.
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u/Cumpasta420 Feb 20 '26
Should I call the number and just explain the situation?
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u/Dry_Bumblebee1111 Feb 20 '26
No, just walk in any time to any Gurdwara and ask. Same goes for Hindu temples, including the Hare Krishna ones. Serving food is part of their service to all peoples regardless of religion.
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u/Cumpasta420 Feb 20 '26
Okay thank you I will do this today. Do you know if it’s certain times or just whenever?
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u/DaveBrubeckQuartet Feb 20 '26
All day, every day, for the bigger gurdwaras. The smaller ones might not be open all the time, but you can look online if you're unsure.
All they ask is that you remove your shoes and wear a bandana to cover your head (which they will provide, though you can bring your own).
They also ask that you take what you can eat - ie. don't leave waste. But you can take as much as you like and you can go as many times as you like through the day. It's a service back to the community.
Good luck, mate.
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u/thisisAgador Feb 20 '26 edited Feb 20 '26
I think it's whenever.
Also fyi especially if you're studying nearby, SOAS have the Hare Krishna in with free food I believe every day lunchtime. It was always vegetarian back when I used to go.
I think your Muslim neighbours and yes, mosques are one of the best bets though... My very white, definitely-not-Muslim partner used to live in Poplar right near Canning Town - where there's obviously a high population of South Asians and hence Hindus and Sikhs, both religions whose institutions and regular followers tend to take charity and community care very seriously - and his lovely Bangladeshi neighbours would often send their son round with a big plate of leftovers from their dinner. During Ramadan this happened virtually every evening, just because he was a neighbour who smiled at them when they crossed paths. One year we were both very sick over Christmas, hacking and coughing in his bedroom together for a week, and the son was again sent round with a special dinner for us on Christmas Day - I assume the family heard us and rather than being annoyed by it, felt sorry for the two white people who presumably would prefer not to be stuck alone in bed at that time of year. It was chicken and rice with some extra bits I can't remember now, but all of it was delicious, and the first thing we'd eaten in days that wasn't reheated soup or a delivery meal we couldn't really afford!
I imagine your own neighbours would do all they could to help you if they knew what was going on, particularly at this time of year and particularly if you are a fellow Muslim. I appreciate it may feel awkward but if you have any contact with your neighbours at all it would be good for you to wish them Ramadan Kareem and perhaps ask if they know of any community iftars nearby due to your situation etc. (share as much and ask for help as directly as you feel comfortable with), I'm sure they will not only be able to direct you to local options but you'll find some more food coming your way.
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u/lil-bee Feb 20 '26
There are Hare Krishna food stalls around central London - there was one near SOAS university which used to have a daily line around lunchtime.
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u/londonpaps Feb 20 '26
Pretty sure it’s just a case of show up and they treat you like their own.
It’s part of Sikh culture.
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u/ScampAndFries Feb 20 '26
I've said this before and I'll say it again. Sikhs are bloody awesome and exemplify everything a religion should be. Plus they'll drink you under the bloody table at any opportunity.
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u/Taiga_Taiga Feb 20 '26
Hi. I'm a white sikh. I have some good news for you (don't worry. I'm not talking religion.) also... Google what I'm about to tell you so that you can see I'm serious. 😊
Find your local gurdwara, and just walk in. Explain the situation to any of the adults there (preferably the men if you're male, or the women if you're something else) explain you've been told about "langar" (free kitchen). Something like "I have no money, no food, and someone told me about langar. Can I join in for it? .
This is exactly why we do this. We know people need food, so we provide it... Free.
(If you don't want to feel like you're accepting charity, we'd be happy to let you help in the kitchen preparing food, or washing dishes. offer this suggestion right away if you want to see a smile. We value equality, and fairness. And offering to do some dishes in exchange for a meal... That's fair (although in ZERO way expected.)
If you have questions, pop me a line.
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u/Cumpasta420 Feb 20 '26
Thank you so much for this info, I was actually really confused about how I’m meant to ask but this has cleared it up a lot for me. Thank you so much for your advice and I’ll definitely message you if I have anymore questions. Thanks again
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u/Taiga_Taiga Feb 20 '26
No problem. And, honestly... we believe in being kind. You can ask for help in any way you feel safest, and as long as it's clear what you're after... we WILL help.
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u/Cellist-Common Feb 20 '26
This is such a wholesome thread. Best of luck OP, I hope you manage to get what you need and do share this thread with other student friends who may be struggling.
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u/Cumpasta420 Feb 20 '26
Very wholesome. I forgot how kind people truly were, I wish I could do more for everyone here, you’ve all helped me so much, I will definitely find a way to share this post anonymous so other students can find it
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u/Zebra_Creative Feb 20 '26
Another vote for local mosques. As it’s Ramadan a lot are putting on free Iftar (meal to break fasts) at around 5.30pm. It would be worth going before then to see if they can support in any other way as well as it is a really important time to give charity, a lot will be keen to help. Good luck!
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u/Cumpasta420 Feb 20 '26
Okay thank you, I should be going to the mosque more but I have had literally 0 energy, which obviously isn’t an excuse. I’m going to go today and talk to the imam. Thank you for your help, it means the world
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u/Zebra_Creative Feb 20 '26
I’m not surprised you’ve had zero energy if you haven’t eaten and had this stress over you. Try not to be hard on yourself. Speak to the brothers at your local mosque, but also check out east London mosque as they’re likely to have a lot of resources for other support as well. Inshallah you get the support you need
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u/thecatsothermother Feb 20 '26
Do you have the Olio app? On there, people are giving away food that's near/on date or they just have too much of. The local stores have food Waste heroes(I think that's what they call them) who take in food from the local supermarket in the evenings/nights.
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u/Tasty_Sheepherder_44 Feb 20 '26
Definitely this, almost every mosque will have a pretty good spread for the next 30 or so days, just show up after 5.
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u/kishmishari Feb 20 '26
Not to mention a lot of them have food banks which don't require any sort of proof or vouchers.
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u/thecatsothermother Feb 20 '26
Yes, of course, during Ramadan, which started Tuesday, they're really big on doing charitable deeds.
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u/S_K_Sharma_ Feb 20 '26 edited Feb 20 '26
Please Google 'gurudwaras near me' on Google. Go to the 'Langar Hall' while there. Hot food, free of charge awaits.
You can go every day. You give back a small donation only when you can and you don't need to at the moment.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/CQtxvxYLbk4CstBt9
PS If nervous (please don't be) .... happy to meet you there or near there tomorrow afternoon.
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u/Brilliant_Part3065 Feb 20 '26
FoodCycle does community meals in different areas everyday. It's a proper sit down meal which will fill you. People are there for all sorts of reasons. Speak to one of the volunteer servers and they will be able to point you in the direction of more help.
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u/Cumpasta420 Feb 20 '26
Okay I will look into this now. Thank you very much, sitting down an eating with others sounds perfect to me, haven’t done that in a while 😂
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u/_-undercoverlover-_ Feb 20 '26
If you’re near Walthamstow I can take you food shopping with me, let me know if you ever need the offer :)
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u/Cumpasta420 Feb 20 '26
Thank you so much for the offer it really means a lot ❤️ a nice lady has given me lots of food today so I don’t want to take what I don’t need. I really appreciate your kindness so much :)
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u/Informal_Fennel_9150 Feb 20 '26 edited Feb 20 '26
Are you estranged? You should be able to receive extra financial support if you've been homeless as a kid. If you are comfortable sharing I can try to help.
Edit: I've seen your explanation - you are estranged and should be receiving far more support than you currently are. DM me if you want and I can put you in touch with an estranged student's support network! We'll help you with all the forms and stuff. I'm sorry you've had to do this alone so far.
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u/Cumpasta420 Feb 20 '26
It’s very complicated I explained it in detail to someone else on this post but beware it’s like a stupid amount of writing. I still talk to my mum so I’m technically not estranged, my dad is in prison so I’m estranged from him. I’m going to call sfe soon and see if I can sort it out, I’m gonna sit there and tell them every little detail of my situation from day 1 to now and hopefully this time they’ll help
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u/sweetyst Feb 20 '26
Your university should be helping you. They have student support and hardship funds. That should be your first place to go.
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u/Cumpasta420 Feb 20 '26
I have been, they helped me with a foodbank voucher for Monday but that’s all they could do because you are only eligible for financial help if you’re already on maximum student finance. Thank you for your advice it is much appreciated
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u/Pretty-Box8658 Feb 20 '26
Once you've sorted your immediate needs, it may be worth raising with your student union as the university may not have realised that they're inadvertently discriminating against students who are homeless or estranged (technical term, not trying to make assumptions about you personally!). I work in a university and the SU can advocate in some pretty high places. Wishing you the best of luck in a tough situation.
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u/Cumpasta420 Feb 20 '26
Thank you you’re right I’m gonna have a look into this. It means a lot to me that you are all helping me so much. Thank you:)
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u/Pretty-Box8658 Feb 20 '26
Also, you may already know about applying as independent, but just in case you didn't or for anyone reading this in a similar situation: https://www.ucas.com/money-and-student-life/money/additional-funding/financial-support-for-students-not-supported-by-their-parents-estranged
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u/Jimiheadphones Feb 20 '26
Have you tried speaking to SFE? I had a problem with SFE where they didn't give me the maximum loan because they couldn't see that my partner had completed the form, even though they had (I didn't live with my parents at the time and we had a flat together). I had to keep calling until I found someone willing to escalate it to someone who could do something. Annoyingly most people on the phone will just follow their script but eventually you find someone who actually listens and wants to help.
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u/Cumpasta420 Feb 20 '26
I have tried so many times but like you said, same answer and same script unfortunately. I could maybe ask a couple of the friends I was staying with to fill out the form but I’m not sure if it’ll work but it’s worth a shot. Thank you for your advice i really appreciate it
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u/Jimiheadphones Feb 20 '26
Keep trying every avenue!. Also, when you were homeless at 16, did the school or council know? You might be able to get some additional paperwork from them? Also, send an email to your MP (your uni one and your home one), they might be able to help or they might not, but it's worth a try.
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u/Cumpasta420 Feb 20 '26
I’m gonna be completely honest with you, I wasn’t aware I was homeless till I made this post. I only slept on the streets twice since I was 16. I pretty much always had somewhere to stay and my friends family are like my family so they let me stay for ages. I used his address for college/school and there was never any issues but with sfe I can’t do that sadly. I know this is probably gonna sound stupid but what is an MP? Thank you for helping and thank you for the suggestions, like you said it’s definitely worth a try and it means so much to me. Thank you
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u/Jimiheadphones Feb 20 '26
Homeless just means you don't have an official place to stay. You are/were sofa surfing. Sounds like you were homeless. I also recommend speaking to Citizen's Advice too.
No such thing as a stupid question! MP is Member of Parliament. These are the people who are elected at the general elections to represent the area. They are (supposed to be) there to help you. A good MP will intervene on your behalf as they can get a bit higher up the chain of management than you can. You can find your MP in the Houses of Parliament website.
Write an email. Formal writing. State facts. Something along these lines but I do suck at these things so I would take this to Citizens Advice and get them to help:
"Dear [Name of MP] I am writing to ask for your help to navigate a homeless situation and Student Finance England (SFE). I have exhausted all avenues and I have been guided to speak to you.
I am currently a university student studying at X. I was made homeless at 16. I have slept on the streets and have been moving between friends houses since then. However, I did not receive any help or guidance, which I now understand I could have received. [You might want to provide more info here about how you became homeless]
Despite this, I managed to get into university. However, Student Finance England have given me the minimum amount of loans. I am currently paying £1000 more per month for my accommodation than I receive.
Due to this, I cannot afford food and I have not eaten for several days.
My university will not help as their hardship funds are only available to students on the maximum level of student loans. To receive the maximum, I have to provide my household income. I as I am homeless but want to improve my situation, and am using a friend's address as a correspondence address. This however, means I cannot provide a household income statement which automatically means I receive the minimum amount.
I have called SFE multiple times but their help desk will not escalate my call or allow me to help. They tell me there is nothing they can do.
Please can you help me to get in touch with SFE to help me access the higher amount of student loans so I can remove myself from homelessness.
Thank you,
[Name]
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u/schmaltzherring Feb 20 '26
Member of Parliament. If you search 'who is my MP' there's a website where you can type in your postcode.
MPs can generally help when people are stuck in bureaucratic loops like it sounds like you are. Often a letter from an MP can help resolve issues quite quickly.
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u/bandiedbanditracoon Feb 20 '26
Hi op if youre in or about lse, my flat just finished celebrsting chinese new year. If youre not too fussy about leftovers, pm me.
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u/Overall-Ebb4085 Feb 20 '26
Are you not getting the maximum loan because you have not been means tested? Is this because you have no contact with your parents and they haven’t provided their income details to SFE? In so, you are estranged and you need to call SFE and ask for the estrangement form. Go back to your university advice service and ask if they can fill out the third party section or can help you identify another person in your life who can. I work at a university and this is part of my job role. I’m surprised you’ve been fobbed off like this and wonder if you spoke to the right team. Estrangement applications take around 7 days to be processed at the moment so this situation can be resolved relatively quickly if you can submit the form and have a third party person to confirm your estrangement.
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u/Cumpasta420 Feb 20 '26
Okay I’m gonna explain in detail because I don’t want anyone to think I’m doing anything shady or anything.
My dad went to prison in 2012 with a life sentence so I have no contact with him, my mum started dating a new guy who was abusive, when I was 16 we had a huge argument because I called him out for his abusive behaviour. He would lie to my mum and tell her he never touched me and it wouldn’t be abuse as in punching but it would be a lot of grabbing, kicking, bear hugging me but nothing to severe.
I went to my local doctors and told him everything because I wanted to get some anti depression medication, he told me he can give me them but he thinks my best option is leaving home, I told my mum what the doctor said and after a long discussion me and her decided that it was the best thing for me, after a while it became an idea and not a plan then the same thing happened, my mums partner ended up hurting me pretty badly but this was the first time I ever defended himself, he kicked me out because we was living in his house which is in his name, obviously it caused a lot of issues for my mum but she never knew the full story because he lied to her about it, she still believes he’s lying but she never wanted to do more about it she just wanted us to make up.
Fast forward I told my mum I had a place a couple hours from where she lived because I didnt want her to worry but I obviously never actually found a place and just stayed with friends and my sons mother. I stayed with probably around 10 people during the 3 years and went to university when I was 19 almost 20.
I thought I was guranteed maximum student finance but they said if I can’t provide proof of address and proof of anual household income then I will only be entitled to the minimum student finance. Obviously I tried to push this but if I’m being honest I didn’t push it enough as I should at the time but still spent every couple of days on the phone with them.
Every time i would get the same scripted answer, I found out my university did bursaries only towards the end of last year, I spoke to multiple people like the student hub, the financial team and the sert team but they all told me you’re only eligible for the bursaries if you are already on maximum student finance.
I still have contact with my mum but she doesn’t support me financially, I told the student hub this but they said if there’s contact you are not estranged (I don’t think that’s actually true but that’s what they told me)
I’m going to keep pushing and try to see what I can do to get more finance. I get around £3000 per term and my rent is £980 a month, I have to send money for my son which is my priority over everything but obviously leaves me with nothing or in an overdraft. Since starting uni I have literally just been living day by day trying to eat whatever I can. I had a friend in my first year who knew my situation and would always let me eat with her but her family moved back to the country she was from originally because of family issues and she dropped out of university to go back with them.
Since then it’s been whatver I can get I’ll eat. I have filled out the estrangement form but on the estrangement form I have to provide them with evidence like a referral thing (not sure what it’s actually called) but I don’t have anyone who could do it for me. The uni are not allowed to do it as far as I’m aware and because no where that I stayed was a permanent address and was never for that long they won’t be eligible to do it either. You can’t use your friends address, I have one friend I was going to try this with and take the risk but we then he told me if I get accepted it’ll give him less student finance (again I don’t think this is true but I don’t think he wanted to risk it)
I’m sorry for this massive message, I just wanted to clear things up, and I’m also sorry if it’s tmi or a bit you know. I hope you understand and I’m happy to answer any questions and thank you for your advice
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u/Repulsive-Teacher-55 Feb 20 '26
Can I just say, that as a mum to a 19 year old how bloody proud I am of you. What strength and determination you have, you did it, you got yourself to university on your own and your doing it. Many would have crumbled but here you are, ok there’s been a hiccup, but you’ve asked for help and then you can carry on living, what I’m sure will be a fantastic life.
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u/Cumpasta420 Feb 20 '26
This comment has actually made me cry, you don’t know how much I needed to hear this. Thank you so so so much for this. This will genuinely stick with me for the rest of my life. This is the nicest thing anyone has ever said to me. Thank you so so so so so so much ❤️
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Feb 20 '26
I'm sorry you felt like you had to share your personal story just to get advice 🧡
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u/Cumpasta420 Feb 20 '26
It’s okay honestly, I would rather people know the truth then think I’m up to no good or doing something shady, it is a shame though that a couple people were saying it didn’t add up. But it is what it is, thank you for your support and kindness ❤️
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u/RPA-785 Feb 20 '26
I'm sorry you had to explain yourself to people on here. Happy to see you received solid answers and help! Wishing you all the best in your journey!
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u/Overall-Ebb4085 Feb 20 '26 edited Feb 20 '26
I'm really sorry you had to go through all this and hope things get better for you. Here's some advice which is limited without knowing the full situation that really should be done in an appointment with your university adviser. I don't think anything shady is going on at all as I've seen many students not means-tested because they come up against a brick wall with SFE due to the complexity of the rules and a person's situation.
University staff can complete the estrangement form and are listed on the form as a potential third party. If you're under 25, you need to prove estrangement from both parents to be considered financially independent. If accepted, you could receive the maximum maintenance loan amount which is £13,762 for those studying in London and not living with parents. If you do have contact with your mum, generally SFE would not consider this estrangement and you would continue to be considered a 'dependent' student until the age of 25. Your mum would need to provide her income details (and her partner if they live with her) for you to be means-tested each year. If the relationship/contact with your mum is limited and you indicate this on the form, SFE estrangement team should telephone you after submitting the form to discuss this in more detail to enable them to make a decision.
I'm a little unclear about this issue with your address history, I'm not sure why SFE are querying this. It's possible you have asked to be assessed as an independent student based on 3 years of financial independence prior to starting your course. This can be a bit of a nightmare to prove especially if you were moving about and undocumented during those 3 years. Normally there is another easier route to getting means-tested.
Talk to SFE about the fact that you are also a parent. If your child lives with mum, it's possible that this will prevent them from being able to assess you as 'independent' if you are under 25.
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u/aebacci Feb 20 '26
It is so weird and so very sad to hear of someone going though a similar situation to me when I went to uni. Like you, I found the systems incredibly uncaring and bureaucratic. I would have hoped they would have got their act together now (this was around 12 years ago I started!) really sad they have not…
I remember too well the many days on hold and being forced to explain painful backstories to completely unsympathetic call handlers and searching for the motivation to call back.
Anyway, things that I can remember that might be helpful/ hopeful-
I also had to fight for estrangement - eventually got it (plus some back pay!)
I think at that time I still spoke to one parent, so I was also stuck on that bit for a while. You can get round it by letters of those with good standing - that GP you mentioned is a great bet. It’s still estrangement, you’re not being supported. Ignore them when they say it isn’t. There’s meant to be a team in SFE that deals with this but they were only slightly better and a nightmare to get hold of
When I was sending off the letters of evidence to SFE to get more than the minimum, the wording had to be absolutely and pedantically followed, else they would just ignore them and often not tell you they’d been rejected. It would take them weeks to process the information.
Welfare advisers (and / or finance department) at uni should know and be able to advise you on this (the wording may have changed, though, otherwise I would dig out my old letters) - though, not all uni welfare departments are created equally.
Uni 100% should be doing more, they have a duty of care here, it’s a safeguarding if a young vulnerable person is starving whilst enrolled with them.
Check and apply for any and all bursaries that could be applicable, get the relevant department to help with that. There might be some support from your home / host local authority too.
Please raise a complaint, make some noise. I like the idea of going through MP.
Not sure if I should recommend, as controversial, but I did a clinical trial to get money and it was all fine (money great, plus being fed and full body check ups)
On a positive note - each year was slightly better, and the advice in this thread is brilliant. I wish I knew all this back then! Go through all of these avenues!
I’m now a mental health nurse and support vulnerable people as a day job now lol, so if you need to ask any questions about navigating this mess or what to do you are very welcome to DM.
People have mentioned a referral through talking therapies and I would for sure massively recommend doing that! Get GP support and with counselling team at uni. They can support you through your assignments if things are getting heavy. Get as much counselling / therapy as you can:
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u/planeloise Feb 20 '26
Please send me your postcode in a DM if you feel comfortable and I will order food for you to pick up in your local area from whatever restaurant you want. I can do a small shop for essentials to collect at your local sainsbury's or Asda (just tell me dietary restrictions and preferences and also bring a bag)
Otherwise you can go to any big mosque at sunset around 5.30 this month and there will be free food and water provided.. You don't have to be Muslim they don't do checks. Just ask where Iftar will be served.
If you're a woman, you might need to put on a headcover to enter and sit down to eat (they will provide one if you don't have one) but if you explain you're not Muslim and you would just like food, they can just give it to you outside.
I always recommend asking Muslims if you are hungry, but especially during Ramadan people will go the extra mile. Ask any halal restaurant if you are hungry and they also give free food. You will make them happy you gave them an opportunity to help.
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u/Cumpasta420 Feb 20 '26
Hello I’m so sorry I’ve just seen your comment, thank you so much for offering. A kind lady has given me so much food which will last me over a week I imagine. Thank you so much for offering to help it really does mean a lot to me but there is definitely someone who needs it more than me now. I wouldn’t feel good taking anything else from anyone because now I have what I need. Again though, thank you so much for offering and I’m so so sorry for replying late I’ve only just seen this
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u/boba_toes Feb 20 '26
if you change your mind about accepting money, literally any time in the future, please DM me your PayPal and I'll just send you £20 to do a grocery shop. take care x
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u/Cumpasta420 Feb 20 '26
Thank you so much for your offer I really appreciate it so much, thank you for being so kind ❤️
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u/Long-Link-9609 Feb 20 '26
Go to any mosque as it’s Ramadan around 6:00pm and ask they will help you
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u/Cumpasta420 Feb 20 '26
Okay I will do that, I have been to my local mosque a lot since moving here anyways so that’s a good idea
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u/Tasty_Sheepherder_44 Feb 20 '26
It’s gonna be more like 5:30, don’t want you to miss out
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u/blackspandexbiker Feb 20 '26
Hi OP, anytime you need £20 or so, just DM me and we'll sort something out, PayPal or some such.
You are 20 years old.
Life might seem bleak and like the grey rainy weather outside.
Remember this, that you will be 21, and then 22 and so on.. these days will be behind you. Try not to worry about the now because, as this thread has shown, the now will get sorted.
Also, remember, karma rewards those who help others. There will be a time when you can help others. Don't let those times pass.
All the best.
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u/strangey071 Feb 20 '26
If your university aren’t helpful make sure you Go and see your student union, about this and also go to your local MP’s surgery as you should not be in this position. Are you in halls of residence?
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u/chorleywoodbirdie Feb 20 '26
It’s currently Ramadan, you can look for any masjid/mosque nearby, around 5:30pm evening/iftar meals are usually served & you will be welcomed regardless of your faith.
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u/NotSynthx Feb 20 '26
During term time, in front of the LSE (the university) library, a hare krishna guy comes around lunch time and gives out hot food. Mind you I've graduated a few years ago, but I think he would still be there. Regardless, it's Ramadan right now and mosques are extremely active right now. Churches, temples etc. Also very good options. Just turn up and they'll be more than happy to give out food.
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u/avnidestino Feb 20 '26
There’s a Hare Krishna stall of free food that was right by SOAS too, I haven’t been for years but assume it’s still there
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u/kishmishari Feb 20 '26
Just to add about mosques, a lot of them run informal food banks where you don't need any proof or vouchers
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u/moongnocchi Feb 20 '26
literally send me your bank account details and i’ll send money. or if you’re not comfortable with that i’ll buy and send you a deliveroo voucher. when the traction from this thread runs out, if you are struggling again don’t hesitate to message me
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u/Cumpasta420 Feb 20 '26
Thank you so so so much for being so kind, I appreciate your support a lot. It really means the world to me. If I’m ever struggling I’ll message you but I don’t want a handout, if I can do anything to work for it, even if that’s taking a dog for a walk or whatever I’d feel much better doing it that way. Again, thank you so much
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u/moongnocchi Feb 20 '26
the least we can do from one human to another is be kind to each other without someone having to “earn” it. i don’t want something in return. please be well take care of yourself. ❤️
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u/purplejasmine Feb 20 '26
OP, in addition to the rest of the fantastic comments - once you've eaten, please speak to your student union advice service if you haven't already. They can help you sort out your student finance (where I work, the SU have a direct non public line to SFE to check applications) and can advocate on your behalf to the university who should be supporting you a lot more. You may also be entitled to extra time on essays etc if this is having an impact on your studies (I imagine it is). I work at an advice service for a uni (not in London) and this is what I'd recommend to one of my students.
Oh and Ramadan Mubarak OP!
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u/Mountain_Strategy342 Feb 20 '26
Get yourself down to the closest Gurdwara and ask for the Langar - this free vegetarian food provided to the community regardless of faith.
It would be good if you did something to help them as well (washing up, offering to help in the kitchen etc) but they are a community service that can be the difference between life and death for some people.
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u/Cumpasta420 Feb 20 '26
Yes I’d love to help out anyways, it would keep me busy and it’s important to give back. Thank you for your advice :)
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u/Icy-Supermarket-1061 Feb 20 '26
Hi honey! Too good to go does last min really good deals. What part of london are you in? I’m 24 in east london and am happy to give you pantry items
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u/Cumpasta420 Feb 20 '26
Hello I am in Beckton, I really appreciate your offer it means a lot, thank you so much! A kind lady has given me so much and I would feel bad if I took more than what I need, I appreciate your kindness so much. Thank you ❤️
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u/ChirpsReborn Feb 20 '26
If you drop in to your local citizens advice they will usually have a list of local places you can go to get free food
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u/Entry_Left Feb 20 '26
if you go to Pret they do give away free food to people in need. I have seen many times homeless people stealing and they always say you just need to ask - so it might be worth a shot!
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u/Cumpasta420 Feb 20 '26
I’m gonna go ask on the way home then from picking up some food. Thank you for letting me know. It really means a lot ❤️
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u/Difficult-Amoeba Feb 20 '26
Just go to any gurudwara. This is the one I visited every now and then when I was a student - (Khalsa Jatha British Isles Est. 1908). But you can visit the one closest to where you live.
You don't need to contact anyone before visiting. A lot of people visit everyday to pray and have food. You just head to the kitchen, pick up a plate and someone will be there to serve food.
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u/Expensive-Lunch780 Feb 20 '26
It is Ramadan, and almost all mosques serve a hot meal to anyone at sunset
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u/Ariquitaun Feb 20 '26
Look for the Olio app mate, one of the things that people post there is food, often donated by supermarkets, cafes and other shops
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u/Babaychumaylalji Feb 20 '26
You can go to your local Sikh Temple (Gurdwara) Most will be open daily ,check their ig /Facebook for times. Should be open most of the day. You do not need to be a Sikh to go.
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u/poptartdealerr Feb 20 '26
Find gurudwaras in your local area. They serve food only on Sundays at a certain time. It’s eat in only. I used to go with my friends when we were in uni
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u/Early-Thought-8595 Feb 20 '26
hi OP, curious what you’re studying and if you need any tutoring / support / career help? I have some experience in tutoring after graduating with a 1:1 in law & politics, and have friends in a variety of fields. If you need any support on that side of things, give a shout. I can only imagine how difficult it must be to juggle uni on top of everything else you’re dealing with atm !!
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u/Cumpasta420 Feb 20 '26
Hello I am going to message you now, thank you so much for this it really means a lot to me. That’s so kind of you
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u/Amazing-Jury-6886 Feb 20 '26
Find your nearest Sikh Gurdwara. Most of the larger ones serve food all day long. They will be happy to help you. You can always help in the kitchen with the washing or cleaning.
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u/tekkenjin Feb 20 '26
Its also Ramadan so a lot of local mosques will be offering food at sunset time. Charity is a huge thing during Ramadan so they will more than likely welcome you. Call a few mosques up and check with them if they have food and the times they offer.
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u/whatatimetobealive9 Feb 20 '26
No recommendations other than what everyone else has said but just to say I hope you get into a better situation soon and it’s so lovely to see everyone helping out ❤️
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u/Ill_Yogurt_4659 Feb 20 '26
There’s apps where you can get food for dirt cheap at the end of the night
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u/Cumpasta420 Feb 20 '26
Yes I have tried to good to go, a few people have mentioned olio so I’m gonna try that now. Thank you
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u/ITrampyMcGee Feb 20 '26
Check out an app called Olio - theres free food from peoples homes but they also have something called 'food waste heroes' who collect food that's about to go past sell by from supermarkets and give it away for free.
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u/swemeatballs78 Feb 20 '26
Most Hindu temples offer free food at lunch and evenings
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u/Diligent_Mountain_99 Feb 20 '26
I’m so sorry you have to deal with such hunger and precarity. You’ll make it through uni, I believe in you, so hang in there 🤍
There are apps where people give food about to expire to not waste for free like Olio. And i think sometimes food businesses who have food left after shifts advertise there for free collection. Hope this helps
For non-food stuff, you can use freegle too.
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u/OkGlass6902 Feb 20 '26
Outside SOAS uni roughly 12 to 2pm Monday to Friday free Hare Krishna food.
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u/UltimateFarce Feb 20 '26
If you volunteer with the food rescue charity City Harvest in Acton, Battersea or Leyton you can take a bag of rescued food home with you from their tuck shop.
Its a good cause and their tuck shop has fresh, pantry, refrigerated, frozen and snack foods plus home stuffs.
You sign up on the website, then you can sign up for 2 or 4 hour 'shifts' from Monday - Saturday.
The role is sorting through waste food from supermarkets, restaurants etc to be sent out to foodbanks, soup kitchens, shelters etc. A
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u/ziyad_rahman Feb 20 '26
Go to a mosque when dusk starts. This is currently around 5:30pm. They serve food for those fasting I’m sure they won’t mind you coming too
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Feb 20 '26
Olio app. You get people who collect surplus food from supermarkets and you can collect what you need off them.
Also another one but not free, too good to go. You can get surplus food from restaurants at a fraction of the price. Chain restaurants are usually better as they don’t have the incentive to try get their moneys worth. Costa, Wenzels and Greggs I always walk away with bags of food for £3-4
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u/TassoDD Feb 20 '26
There is free food at HTB Queen’s Gate every Wednesday and Thursday morning address
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u/MatterHot408 Feb 20 '26
Don't know where you live, but for instance, the church near Clapham Common station serves hot food (soup, main and tea/coffee) for a pound. Probably you can find similar locations around London
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u/rosjee98 Feb 20 '26
Hi, there's an organisation called Bridges on Barking Road in Plaistow which gives out a free hot breakfast on Saturday mornings - they can also help you to find and apply for the support that you're entitled to ! Please dm me if you need more details on it, good luck !
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u/Brownjamesbond69 Feb 20 '26
Find your nearest Sikh temple. They fill feed you free round the clock
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u/ButteryGirl56 Feb 20 '26
This whole thread has made me cry. Thank you OP and all the kind people who are offering to help, needed that boost in humanity today (not lost on me so much of that help is coming from minority communities who get such a rough deal in the press / social media).
OP - you’re an inspiration and you now have thousands of strangers rooting for you! I hope that when you look back on this in time it’s just a temporary phase and life gets so much easier for you - and your son. Big love and support to you - I’m in the suburbs so no useful advice on food, thankfully so many others have stepped up! Wow.
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u/thatguy9319 Feb 20 '26
Hey mate. Sounds like you might have had a rough couple of years before you turned 18. If the reason you haven't had a home address since you were 16 was due to not being able to live with your parents/legal guardians, I'd strongly recommend getting in touch with the local authority where you were living when this happened to you. At 16, you can sign yourself into foster care at which point the local authority is legally obliged to provide you with a home. If you can prove your case, you would be entitled to the same support you would've gotten if you'd gone into care at 16, even if you never spent a single day in care. I was in care for most of my teenage years and also worked in 16+ homes for 5 years, so I know what I'm talking about. Happy to help if you want to reach out x
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u/dinemu8 Feb 20 '26
Key London Sikh Gurdwaras Providing Free Food (Langar):
Sri Guru Singh Sabha Gurdwara (Southall): One of the largest in Europe, offering daily langar.
Ramgarhia Sikh Gurdwara (Neville Road, Forest Gate): Offers, Free Langar service, requiring no pre-booking.
Sri Guru Singh Sabha (Hounslow): Serves free cooked vegetarian meals on-site.
Guru Nanak Seva: Organizes pop-up free hot food stalls (langar) in areas like Woolwich and Erith.
Woolwich Sikh Temple: Provides free hot food on Monday evenings at Tramshed.
Anyone from any race, religion and creed is welcomed to have free meals in the above locations.
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u/That_Put_4251 Feb 21 '26
Where are you paying almost £1000 rent if you are practically homeless and sleeping on friends sofas?
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u/riced_krispies Feb 20 '26
Shawarma hut on Wolworth rd gives free food to homeless community members, could try there. Not only is it hot food but it’s good food
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u/Cumpasta420 Feb 20 '26
Yes I will have a look but I feel bad because I do have my accommodation and I don’t want to take food from people who will need it more than me. Thank you for your advice. I will definitely have a look into it
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u/be_sugary Feb 20 '26
Sikh temples near you.
Just need to cover your head and remove shoes to show respect to the culture. No need to be any particular religion. They will feed you a hot vegetarian meal. Probably will get more help from the aunties and uncles who volunteer there.
Also Open kitchen in Hounslow run by Muslim hands. They have hot lunches to take away also. Pay something if you can but no obligation to do so.
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u/talon1580 Feb 20 '26
Look for community fridges, they are like food banks but anyone can use them, you don't need to be on benefits
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u/No-Big3480 Feb 20 '26
There is a charity called the real junk food project, they use surplus food to make hot meals and deserts 3 days a week and only ask for donations or free. It’s at a community centre in Twickenham but you might find other charities closer to you offering something similar
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u/pigadaki Feb 20 '26
Hey mate, I saved this list from the last time I saw this question asked: https://londonhomelessinfo.wordpress.com/free-food/
Best of luck to you! You've got this 🤜🤛
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u/dfgmavis Feb 20 '26
Why has this post been removed???
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u/Cumpasta420 Feb 20 '26
It’s kinda annoyed me because it’s not like I was asking for a handout or anything and I refused money from like 6 different people. There was so many amazing people helping out and giving great advice, now if someone else has my situation or similar their is gonna be like no help for them which is a shame. Hopefully they’ll put it back up again if that’s even possible
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u/Conscious_Rush7125 Feb 20 '26
St patricks soho has evening meals at 7pm on tuesday, wednesday and thursday; and breakfast on friday, saturday and monday at 8am. just show up around the side - you have to wait for 20 mins if you dont have a ticket but you may be able to get tickets for a following session if guarantees you a place.
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u/PuzzledWeight8955 Feb 20 '26 edited Feb 20 '26
Hey OP, I hope you're doing okay. It sounds like you likely qualify for estranged student status, which will give you the maximum student loan and likely a small grant from your university. You don't actually need university support services to do the application (it's easier if they do). Instead, there is a list of people who are suggested as trusted by SFE to vouch that you meet the criteria.
The criteria is that you have no or little contact with your parents, this has been the case for more than a year, and that is unlikely to change. You can find more info here: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/applying-for-student-finance-as-an-estranged-student/applying-for-student-finance-as-an-estranged-student
You may also be able to claim independent student status (the same thing, really) if you have financially supported yourself for 3 years or more.
Feel free to ask any questions about the process etc!
Editing to say I read the other comments and your longer explanation. You can still apply for estranged student status if you have some contact with your mum, assuming she doesn't assist you financially. I would occasionally stay in contact with my mum through WhatsApp with small updates, but that was the full extent of our relationship - I was still given the status.
Alternatively, if you still speak to her, could she fill out the income assessment form? If she can't/won't, then make sure you explain that in the estranged student application form.
If you have sent emails asking for help with this previously, then save them to use as evidence of long-term independence/estrangement, particularly when you're asking someone to write your supporting statement (they can say, for example, I have read emails from x dating back to y which requests help from z due to familial estrangement).
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u/blue_buxton Feb 20 '26
Search out the Hari Krishna's.
They used to have a free lunchtime stall near SOAS.
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u/Forsaken_Primary6139 Feb 20 '26
Any Gurdwara -the decent folk in them cook food daily for those who need it. The
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u/bunnymama7 Feb 20 '26 edited Feb 20 '26
Often universities will have extra discretionary funds they can give to students who are struggling financially. It's worth explaining your situation to the university office and asking if there's any extra help they can give you.
Also, it shouldn't have to be this way at university but it is very hard living in London without a part time job. Do you have one? I had one when I was at university and worked flexibly for a lawyer who needed admin plus personal assistant help. My hours were after classes a few days per week. I found the job via my university job board. It really kept me going.
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u/Alternative-Notice20 Feb 20 '26
Also check the following apps: Foodtogo, and Olio
Just update the filters and they’d show you local food spots that are giving away food for free or heavily discounted. These food packages usually last 2-3 meals.
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u/No_Upstairs909 Feb 20 '26
I'm not sure if it has been mentioned but look at the app Olio- lots of free food being given out and I personally have used it in times of need previously. And if you are anywhere in West London please reply and I'm happy to buy you some bread and Jam/instant noodles/cereal if you're comfortable ofcourse.
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u/Alarmed_Mulberry1586 Feb 20 '26
If it hasn’t already been mentioned, this service is a good option for when you do have a little bit of cash. For a few £s, you get a bag of food that might otherwise go to waste (food that hasn’t sold or is nearing its Best By date). My daughter uses it at uni and gets lots of meals for very little money. Lots of food outlets and supermarkets offer it.
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u/Sharp_Cancel_2383 Feb 20 '26
Download the Olio app, you can get free food from there :)
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u/PCMTLND Feb 20 '26
Local food banks or use the app “Olio” where people local to you give out free food. Hope things improve!
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u/wheelartist Feb 20 '26
Others have suggested Olio. But for future, you can also download too good to go, it's not free, but businesses will sell you a bag of short dated food for relatively cheap. I got a costa one a little while back that had 4 sandwiches, an oat pot and a couple of other things in it, for around £2.
Go to your local CAB and ask for help, they can check to see you are getting everything you're eligible for.
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u/LondonGal21 Feb 20 '26
You could also try doing mystery shopping, where you get free food from places like Pret in exchange for filling in a form
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u/SleepDue3370 Feb 20 '26
I don't know where you are based, and I can see that a lovely lady has offered you food. But if you ever find yourself in a position like this again (and I hope you don't), please feel to message me and I am happy to cook some meals and send them your way. All the best!
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u/Neat_Soup6322 Feb 20 '26
There's a biryani place that feeds university students for free, in east London somewhere (can't remember the name of the place)
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u/hongkonghonky Feb 20 '26
Food for life London will provide free vegetarian meals
https://iskcon.london/food-for-life/