A baby bank in Birmingham is helping more people, including those in full-time jobs, who are struggling to afford basic needs for their children. Kavita Kaur Dhillon and her husband Karvinder run the Handsworth Baby and Family Bank, located on Soho Road. They offer free items such as nappies, baby formula, clothing, and toys to families in need. Initially, the majority of their clients were from low-income households, but recently, they have seen a rise in working families seeking help with everyday expenses. Kavita explained that the types of items in demand have changed over the years. "We don't need any more clothing; it's the everyday essentials—formula, nappies, wipes, and toiletries," she said. Karvinder noted that as the cost of living has increased, people are needing help with more daily expenses. He said, "Before, we mainly needed nappies. As the daily cost of living has gone up, people need help with more day-to-day things." The couple currently has an urgent need for baby formula, often having only a small number of tubs left in stock. Kavita emphasized that financial struggles can affect anyone, regardless of appearance or lifestyle. "Just because you dress nice or drive a nice car doesn't mean you don't need help," she said. She also acknowledged the stigma that can come with asking for assistance. "Nobody knows people's circumstances. People can judge, but the reality is people are struggling." The Handsworth Baby and Family Bank has been operating since 2024 from inside the couple's boutique store, Dhillons Boutique. Kavita believes that having the bank in the same space as their shop helps reduce the stigma of asking for help. "You go out of our shop and people think you have purchased something, but in fact you've just used our baby bank," she said. She described the space as "warm and welcoming" and noted that demand has continued to grow since the bank opened. For the Dhillons, the most rewarding part of their work is supporting families. "For me, it is fulfilling, knowing I've been able to support or help someone else be okay and smile," Kavita said. She urged anyone struggling not to suffer in silence. "It's nothing to be ashamed of or to be scared of. There's no shame in asking for help."