MORE volunteers have stepped up to protect families in need after the closure of a Dorset charity.
In the aftermath, sister organisation, Home-Start Wessex, announced it was expanding its area to cover the families now missing out.
Now, the Blackmore Vale branch has also agreed to extend its reach, taking on families and volunteers from the area.
“Our services are more in demand than ever,” said Kathy Fryatt-Banks, CEO of Home-Start Wessex. “So we were lucky there are some extremely dedicated volunteers in West Dorset who are determined to carry on their vital work supporting families.
“When they reached out to us, we knew we had to step in to enable this to happen.”
Carole Brown, chair of Home-Start Blackmore Vale, went on: “It is very sad to see our fellow charity, Home-Start West Dorset, no longer able to provide the services they have done to the committee over the last 15 years.
“However, we have made a clear commitment to continue this vital support and will work closely with families and volunteers to ensure we maintain this.
“Now that the future of Home-Start is once again secure in West Dorset, we’re hoping to hear from either current or previous volunteers who would like to get involved again.
READ MORE: Shock as Home-Start West Dorset announces it is to close amid funding crisis
READ MORE: Home-Start Wessex expanding to cover West Dorset after charity closure
“Training will also be provided for new volunteers who’d like to join the team. Everyone is extremely welcome, and never has our help been more needed.
“The current climate means it has become incredibly difficult to secure funding grants, driven by the ongoing impacts of the pandemic, the cost-of-living crisis and many families experiencing mental health issues. More and more families are struggling to cope.”
Chantal Sykes has worked as a volunteer in West Dorset for four years.
“I was devastated when I heard we were closing,” she said. “I know how important the work we do is, and that there are so many families in the county who desperately need our help.
“A weekly visit can make all the difference to new parents, who might be feeling completely unable to cope.
“But it’s also humbling, as a volunteer, to see the resilience many parents show, and the constant love they give their children, despite how tough life can be. Meaning that as volunteers, we also get a lot from the work we do.
“So, I’m thrilled that, thanks to Home-Start Wessex and Blackmore Vale, our work can now continue.”
Anyone who might be able to help, or who is in need of support, is being urged get in touch.
They can contact:
Home-Start Blackmore Vale, The Exchange, Sturminster Newton, DT10 1FH. Telephone 01258 473038, email office@homestartblackmorevale.org.uk.
Home-Start Wessex, Office 2, 1462 Wimborne Road, Kinson, Old Market Hill, Bournemouth, BH10 7AS. Telephone 01202 574877, email office@homestartwessex.org.uk.
Leave a Reply