Home-Start Merton knows how hard being a parent can be, particularly during the early years, and that any additional pressures can make things seem overwhelming.

Home-Start Merton recognises the diversity in families and respects race, cultural and religious traditions. All relationships are based on good communication, respect and trust. The relationship between the Home-Start volunteer and the family is established by choice.

Families need support for many different reasons, including: postnatal illness, loneliness, relationship difficulties, poverty, disability, single parenthood and coping with multiple births or several young children.

Families are referred by their Health Visitor, Social Worker, or other agency, however many families contact us for support directly. Support is free and confidential.

"Knowing that someone cares is wonderful. The feeling of loneliness and despair disappears entirely."