The Cwtch Mawr Multibank model, originally developed in Swansea by the charity Faith in Families, is being expanded to Bridgend County Borough, marking a significant step in tackling rising hardship locally.
The Multibank redistributes new, surplus goods from businesses, including clothing, toiletries, nappies and household essentials, to families who are struggling to afford the basics. Faith in Families says growing demand has driven the expansion, with Bridgend identified as a priority area.
The move into Bridgend has been made possible through collaboration with Bridgend Association of Voluntary Organisations (BAVO). Working closely with local partners and stakeholders, BAVO has helped connect Faith in Families with trusted community organisations to ensure support reaches families quickly and with dignity.
Local hubs at the heart of delivery
A number of community-based hubs across Bridgend have been selected to take part in the rollout. Each hub will receive regular deliveries of essential goods, ready to be distributed through schools, charities and frontline services that already support families in need.
Faith in Families says its vans are already being prepared, with deliveries expected to begin this week.
A rapid response to local need
The Bridgend pilot will test how quickly large volumes of essential items can be moved across the county while keeping delivery rooted in local communities. The approach mirrors the successful Swansea model, focusing on speed, partnership and trust.
Heidi Bennett, CEO of BAVO said:
“This expansion into Bridgend is about responding quickly to real need, while making sure support is delivered through organisations people already know and trust. Working alongside Faith in Families, Cwtch Mawr Multibank and local community partners has been crucial in making this happen, and this pilot will help us understand how the Multibank model can work and grow in Bridgend.”
Expanding a model built on dignity
Jon Waite, Faith in Families Manager said the Multibank model removes barriers such as long waits, paperwork or stigma, ensuring families can access essential items when they need them most. By working through established local networks, supported and coordinated by BAVO, the charity aims to strengthen joined-up responses to poverty across Bridgend.
The Bridgend pilot will also help shape future plans to expand the Multibank approach further across Wales, with the shared goal of ensuring no family goes without the basics.
If you would like any more information, please contact communitynavigator@bavo.org.uk.
