Home-Start offers support and friendship to families with at least one child under five struggling to cope with issues such as postnatal illness, disability, multiple births or isolation. Our volunteers understand that being a parent can be overwhelming, particularly if a family is going through a difficult time. They will visit a family in their own home usually once a week and give friendly, informal, practical and emotional support that helps build the family's confidence and ability to cope.
Why the community needs us
Home-Start volunteers provide vulnerable families with the support that they need to manage the difficulties that they are facing and to enjoy family life. Families often welcome Home-start's informal approach, even when they are reluctant or unable to take up other forms of support. Volunteers commonly give parents the confidence and support to access community activities and other services
Our impact on the community
During the year 2013 to 2014, Home-Start Daventry and South Northants supported 45 families. Within these families there were 128 children - 81 under 5 years old and 47 over 5's. Eighteen of these children were considered to be disabled by their main carer and we supported 14 lone parent families. We organised a Craft Morning, an outing to Salcey Forest as well as a Christmas Party. Six new volunteers were recruited and trained.