Being a parent, whatever your situation, can be very difficult, especially when children are young. Many parents feel exhausted and overwhelmed by the stresses of family life, particularly if family and friends are unable to help. For some parents it’s a particular struggle because they are also experiencing post-natal depression, illness, disability, isolation or multiple birth.
That’s when parents need support.
Home-Start Kernow offers support friendship and practical help to parents with a child under 5 throughout Cornwall.
At Home-Start Kernow we can support families in various different ways, depending on their needs, for as long as it is helpful or needed. A carefully selected volunteer is matched with family to support via home-visiting or regular calls to offer support all in a friendly, non-judgmental way. As well as this we also offer different groups for families to attend and meet other parents.
During these visits, parents are reassured that they are not alone when they experience some of the practical and emotional difficulties that come with bringing up children. This friendly parent-to-parent support is a simple yet effective way of enabling families to get back on track.
At Home-Start Kernow we also understand how important it is for parents to meet other parents and how difficult it may be to take this step, particularly if there are any mental health issues, such as anxiety and depression. Our Home-Start Kernow volunteers, supported by one of our staff, run face to face or virtual on-line parent support groups on a variety of topics throughout the year . These groups give parents the chance to meet other parents, build friendships, which in turn, builds independence, confidence and emotional wellbeing. Your home visiting volunteer will also be there for you if you need support attending these groups.
Join us?
Find out more about our services and how you can participate and make a difference in your community. Follow these links for more information. How to become a Home-Visiting Volunteer or a Trustee of the charity.
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