Being a parent of young children isn’t always easy. It can often be lonely, frustrating, heart breaking and over-whelming. Some have a fantastic support network of family and friends to help, some don’t. That is why Home-Start is here, ready to support families through their challenging times.
Families who have young children and who may be struggling with post-natal depression, isolation, poor emotional or physical health, and many other issues are referred to us, usually by a health visitor or other professional, and receive the support of one of our volunteers who will spend around two hours a week in a family’s home providing practical and emotional support and advice.
Home-Start works because our volunteers understand how hard it can be. They are usually parents (or grandparents) themselves or have parenting experience eg a child minder or nanny. They work alongside parents to help them cope with the stresses and strains of life and make sure they have the skills, confidence and strength they need to nurture their children and to overcome the challenges they are facing. All volunteers receive initial and ongoing training.
