This new partnership means that the school can directly connect families within its community to essential support services, including baby items, food supplies, and household furniture. By working hand in hand with these trusted local organisations, Matford Brook Academy, which is part of the Ted Wragg Trust, is ensuring that help is available whenever it’s needed most.

Exeter Baby Bank works to alleviate child poverty and support families in need across a 30-mile radius of Exeter, providing vital help during times of financial or emotional stress. The charity brings together health professionals, local businesses, charities and community members to tackle poverty at a local level. 

Exeter Foodbank provides emergency food parcels and compassionate support to individuals and families in crisis across Exeter and the surrounding area. Working through a referral system with local agencies, the foodbank supplies nutritionally balanced food and essential items to those facing hardship.

Turntable Exeter is a local charity that provides good-quality, pre-loved furniture and household items to individuals and families experiencing financial difficulties. Turntable helps people set up or sustain their homes by supplying essential items such as beds, sofas, tables and kitchen equipment at little or no cost. The charity’s work not only supports those in need but also reduces waste and promotes sustainability by giving donated furniture a second life. 

Families seeking further information or wishing to request a referral can contact the school’s safeguarding team via [email protected] 

Emily Simpson-Horne, Headteacher at Matford Brook Academy said:

“Our aim has always been to build a caring, resilient community where no one feels alone in times of need. These partnerships allow us to provide practical, compassionate support for families when they need it most. Together, we can continue to support one another and strengthen the community that defines Matford Brook Academy.”

Moira Marder, CEO of the Ted Wragg Trust said:

“These partnerships reflects exactly what our trust stands for, schools at the heart of their communities, working together with compassion and purpose. By connecting families with local organisations, we’re helping to ensure that no one is left without support when they need it most.”