Many people in Crawley cannot afford the basics, facing constant choices between food, heating and essential bills. For many, barriers such as debt, poor mental health, low confidence or limited skills make it hard to move forward. At the same time, isolation and financial exclusion leave people disconnected from community life and everyday experiences others take for granted.

• Customers don’t have enough money to buy food, clothes, and other essentials, which often means they go hungry, or heavily compensate or neglect other areas (health, heating, social engagements etc).

• Some customers face issues that prevent them from getting back on track, or in control of their finances. Common reasons include linguistic barriers; cultural barriers; mental health challenges; physical health issues; or little knowledge of how to cook, manage finances, or gain employment.

• Many customers lack the community support they need to feel healthy and well. Most turn up for the first time feeling ashamed, isolated, lonely, and say they have nowhere else to turn for support.