Being a parent, wherever you live, whatever your circumstances, isn't always easy. Add in pressures such as illness, post natal depression or financial worries, and without the support of family and friends, the stress can seem overwhelming.

What is Home-Start?

Home-Start is a voluntary organisation offering support, friendship and practical help to family who are experiencing difficulties. All families must have at least one child under five. This service is provided free of charge.

Families are visited regularly in their own homes by volunteers who have experience of parenting and, know how hard it can sometimes be caring for young children.

Who are the volunteers?

Our volunteers have been parents themselves so they know the challenges and that there is no one way to bringing up children.

Home-Start volunteers are people from different backgrounds and vary in age, but all have parenting experience. They are carefully selected for their friendliness, practical approach and understanding. Volunteers have been approved and have all attended a course of preparation before being matched with families. They will visit families in their own home and accept them as they are.

Some of our volunteers have been helped by Home-Start themselves.

Also....

We are running accredited courses for volunteers in the West Dorset area. For further information about our charity or if you would like to find out about volunteering for Home-Start West Dorset then please contact:

• Name: Home Start - West Dorset
  Email: homestartwestdorset@yahoo.co.uk
  Tel: 01305 755608
  Full details for Home Start - West Dorset