Charity Spotlight: Home Start Surrey

Each month, The Atrium highlights a local charity making a real difference in the community. This month, we are shining a light on Home-Start Surrey Camberley, a local network of trained volunteers and expert support helping families with young children through challenging times.

Being a parent can be rewarding, but it can also feel overwhelming, lonely, or frustrating, especially during difficult life events. Home-Start is there when families need support the most. Their volunteers work alongside parents in their own homes, offering compassionate, confidential guidance tailored to each family’s needs. There’s no judgement -just practical help, friendship, and expert advice to help parents build the confidence, skills, and strength they need to nurture their children.

Home-Start operates across the UK with around 175 independent local branches, supporting families in a variety of ways. Volunteers typically spend about two hours a week in a family’s home, assisting parents dealing with challenges such as post-natal depression, isolation, bereavement, physical health issues, or financial difficulties. Last year alone, Home-Start supported 76,750 children across 58,938 families, helping them grow up in stable, loving environments that lay the foundation for a positive future.

Beyond home visits, Home-Start also hosts support groups, day trips, and festive events like Christmas parties, helping families connect with their local communities and access wider services. Volunteers are at the heart of the organisation, bringing empathy, experience, and a listening ear to every visit. Their dedication turns seemingly impossible challenges into achievable steps for families.

The earliest years make the biggest difference. Home-Start ensures that these crucial years count so that no child’s future is limited. Children whose parents are struggling to cope may miss out on the routines and support vital for their development. By supporting Home-Start, you are helping change the lives of children across the UK.

There are many ways to get involved. You can volunteer, make a donation, ask friends or family to sponsor you in a challenge, involve your business, or even run your own fundraising event. Every bit of support helps families access the help they need and ensures children have the best possible start in life.

Since its founding in 1973, Home-Start has grown from a local initiative in Leicester to a worldwide movement, with branches in 22 countries supporting families across five continents. The Surrey Camberley branch continues this proud tradition, providing essential care and guidance so that every child has the chance to thrive.

To find out more about Home-Start Surrey Camberley and how you can help, visit their website or get in touch with your local branch. Your support can make a real difference to families right here in Camberley.