Impact to last a lifetime
Volunteers are at the heart of Home-Start, without them we couldn’t do what we do. The impact of Home-Start support, delivered by trained and supervised volunteers can last last a lifetime and be felt across generations.
Here’s just one story that demonstrates the long-lasting legacy of Home-Start support:
Twenty years ago, new mum Sam was supported by a Home-Start volunteer called Marie. Sam was experiencing post-natal illness, later diagnosed as post partum psychosis. Weekly visits from Marie became a lifeline to Sam and baby Molly.
Sam lost touch with Marie when her family moved to another part of the country. But they never forgot one another. Twenty years later they find each other on social media and arrange to meet up. And Sam brings along a very special surprise…
Watch their incredible reunion:
Content Advisory Warning: This film includes reference to the experience of post-partum psychosis and mental illness which some viewers may find distressing.
Could you be a Home-Start volunteer, making a lasting difference to families in your local community? Get in touch today to find out more about the opportunities available, from working directly with families to events, fundraising and awareness raising. Please call 0330 124 2095 or complete a contact form here and a member of the team will be in touch.
Further support for postpartum psychosis
Approximately 1 in 500 new mums will be diagnosed with postpartum psychosis. It is a severe mental health condition that needs to be medically treated. If you, or anyone you know, is affected please speak to medical professionals.
Charitable support is available from Action on Post Partum Psychosis (APP Network)
Crisis Support:
If you or someone you care about is in crisis, or feeling suicidal and needs urgent help you can access support in the following ways:
- Go to A&E at your local hospital
- Phone emergency services on 999
- Call Samaritans on 116 123 (free to call and will not appear on your phone bill), or email jo@samaritans.org