May 2025 Update
Since our soft launch at the start of May, we’ve been quietly getting on with the hard work - growing the platform, improving accuracy, and connecting with the organisations that keep communities going.
We’ve now mapped almost 12,000 support locations across the UK - and we’re not slowing down. Our focus recently has been on bringing some of the country’s most recognisable support organisations fully onto the platform. That includes:
- Every Trussell Trust food bank
- All Citizens Advice centres
- Hundreds of Age UK local branches and events
- Nearly half of the Warm Welcome locations
Next in line is the National Databank, organised by the Good Things Foundation. The National Databank is a nationwide network that works with mobile operators to provide free SIMs and mobile data, texts, and calls to people experiencing data poverty. By giving individuals and families the connectivity they need, the National Databank helps them access essential online services, apply for jobs, stay in touch with loved ones, and take part in everyday digital life. Reliable internet access is now as critical as heat or food, and we're committed to ensuring every Databank hub is comprehensively represented on Innate Needs - so anyone who's struggling to get connected can find help quickly and without fuss.
To date, a lot of our work has been done manually - but our long-term vision is clear: we need partnerships. To make this platform genuinely sustainable and helpful for the people using it, we need direct data feeds or APIs from leading organisations. That’s the only way to ensure information is always up to date, without creating extra admin for already-stretched teams.
So, if you’re part of a national or regional support network and would be open to a conversation about syncing your data - please get in touch. We’d love to collaborate.
Feedback That Fuels Us
Hearing from those who work directly with people in crisis has been one of the most encouraging parts of this journey so far.
Multibank described Innate Needs as a “no brainer” and said they’d consider using it as their go-to signposting platform if the quality of data can be confirmed and maintained.
The team for Perran Moon MP shared their experience:
“From my own playing about with it and the feedback from my casework team, we have all been greatly impressed:
- The Google integration makes the system familiar and accessible.
- The use of icons allows clear understanding of the types of service on show.
- We’ve tried the filters and they actually work!
- The time availability is fantastic - it shows if something is available immediately or if there’s a wait.
- The referring info is brilliant - it helps people understand if they can access it themselves.
From my perspective, it highlights how difficult it can be to access services in rural areas like ours. In a city like Bristol, everything’s a walk or bus ride away. Here it’s a world apart.”
We’re also looking forward to connecting with Charlotte Cane MP’s team in Ely and East Cambridgeshire, who are keen to promote the platform locally and explore how it can support their casework.
A Quick Reminder
If your organisation is already listed on the platform, please log in and verify your details - it only takes a few minutes but makes a huge difference to the people who rely on accurate information.
To help cover the costs of maintaining the platform and adding new features, we’re asking for a small monthly contribution of £1.00 per location.
Check out the platform here:
Thanks to everyone who’s supported us so far - whether by sharing, signing up, verifying a listing, or just sending a kind word our way. We’re building this for the long haul - and with your help, it’s only going to get stronger.
