Little Village, which operates across London, including hubs in Camden, Brent, Tooting, and Wandsworth, is urgently appealing for donations of newborn and size one nappies, as well as baby wipes.
The shortage comes amid rising demand, with a growing number of families experiencing poverty and unable to afford basic baby supplies.
Emily Compston, director of operations at Little Village, said: “Our shelves are empty of newborn nappies and wipes.
“It’s heartbreaking because it means tomorrow a parent may have to choose between buying food or keeping their baby clean and dry – no family should face that kind of impossible decision.
“Nappies are not a luxury; they are a necessity, but without urgent support to replenish our stocks, too many babies will go without the comfort they deserve.”
In 2024, Little Village distributed 6,528 packs of nappies to families.
In the first half of 2025 alone, it has already provided 4,549 packs.
This marks a 64 per cent increase compared to the same period last year.
The charity’s data shows that 26pc of parents are now rationing nappies to make a single pack last longer.
A newborn typically uses around 10 nappies a day, meaning families need about three packs per week.
At mid-range retail prices of £2.50 to £4 per pack, this adds up to £30 to £48 a month.
Renata Acioli, a baby bank manager at Little Village, said: “I meet families who are doing everything they can but still don’t have enough in their pockets to cover the most essential items for their baby.
“It breaks my heart hearing stories of mums and dads having to resort to nappy and formula rationing.
“You can help though; we’re urging those who can, to buy some extra packs of nappies and ‘keep one and pass one on’.”
Little Village has recently begun supplying every NHS maternity unit in London with emergency newborn packs.
These include nappies, sleepsuits, baby grows, muslins, and maternity pads.
This year, the charity expects to distribute more than 700 of these packs, a 37 per cent rise from 2024.
The charity is calling on individuals, communities, and businesses to support the appeal.
A £10 donation will provide a week’s supply of nappies for one family, while £32 will cover a month’s supply.
To donate, visit littlevillage.enthuse.com/nappyappeal.
A donation of £45 will fund a newborn starter pack for five families.
New or unopened packs of nappies and wipes can be dropped off at Little Village hubs.
Open packs are also accepted.
