A South Wales charity that has quietly supported thousands of families over the past decade is celebrating a major milestone this month.

On April 26, Cwtch Baby Bank will mark 10 years of helping vulnerable families across South East Wales, having provided essential baby items to more than 6,500 families since launching in 2016.

The service works entirely through referrals from frontline professionals including midwives, health visitors and social workers, ensuring support reaches those who need it most during what can often be the most challenging times.

Founded in Taffs Well by retired foster carer Hilary Johnston, the charity began as a small community initiative and has grown into a vital lifeline for families facing increasing financial pressure amid the rising cost of living.

What started with just a single room and a handful of donated items has developed into a well-established service supporting families with children from newborn up to two years old.

The idea behind the charity was simple but powerful – to make sure no baby in Wales goes without the basics. After recognising there was no similar service locally, Hilary began redistributing her own collection of baby items gathered during her years as a foster carer, laying the foundations for what Cwtch Baby Bank has become today.

Speaking about the milestone, founder and trustee chairperson Hilary Johnston said the charity’s journey has been shaped by community support from day one.

“Ten years ago, we started with a small room and a big belief that every child deserves a safe, supported start in life,” she said. “A decade later, thanks to the generosity of our community and the dedication of our staff and volunteers, we’ve helped thousands of families facing hardship.”

Today, the charity redistributes clean, good-quality pre-loved items including clothing, nappies, prams and cots, helping to ease financial pressure while ensuring babies have everything they need in those crucial early months.

As demand continues to grow, the charity says community donations and ongoing support remain as important as ever, with the next chapter focused on reaching even more families across the region.

For more information or find out how to donate, you can get in touch directly.
Email: cwtchbabybank@gmail.com
Website: cwtchbabybank.co.uk Facebook: www.facebook.com/Cwtchbabybank