Charity appeal to help more vulnerable kids

But there were more children in need of the charity’s help who they had to turn away because of lack of funds.

They are asking local people to help make sure they can support every child who needs their help in the future by launching their Snowflake Appeal.

The families that need Home-Start’s support can be dealing with complex, long term issues. 46% of the families that Home-Start CHAMS supported in the last year were experiencing mental ill health, 25% had debt and financial problems and 21% faced domestic abuse.

As Liz Roe, scheme manager at Home-Start CHAMS explained: “Our volunteers are often the last chance for vulnerable children and their families who need extra support to get them through tough times or to help them cope again.

“We want to be able to reach every child who needs us, as early as we can, so that they can have the best possible start in life. Which is why we are asking people to support our Snowflake Appeal.”

The Appeal, which will run until the end of January, has the backing of TV presenter and Home-Start ambassador Kirstie Allsopp. Recording a video released for the launch of Home-Start’s Snowflake Appeal, she spoke about the charity’s work and appealed to people to donate or fundraise to support the appeal; “From crocheting snowflakes, to holding a cake sale or getting sponsored on your snowboard – there is something for everyone.”

Visit www.homestartchams.org.uk/snowflake

Report and picture contributed by Home-Start CHAMS.