Barratt Homes supports local families with donation to Home-Start Exeter, East and Mid Devon

Home-Start Exeter, East, and Mid Devon, a local charity dedicated to giving young children under five the best possible start in life, has received a generous donation of £1,500 from local homebuilder, Barratt Homes.

This significant contribution will boost the charity’s efforts to provide compassionate and practical support to parents as they navigate the challenges of early parenthood. The funds will aid in the delivery of vital services such as home visits, group support, and access to essential items for children’s well-being.

Home-Start Exeter, East, and Mid Devon operates with a mission to empower young children through volunteer-led support. With 48 active volunteers, the charity aided 138 families last year. These families face various challenges, including new parenthood, single parenthood, post-natal depression, bereavement, domestic abuse, financial problems, and the struggles of raising twins.

The donation from Barratt Homes will support the charity with recruiting and training new volunteers, ensuring that even more families receive the vital support they need. Last year, it cost Home-Start £1,200 to support a family for six months.

Home-Start Exeter, East, and Mid Devon is part of Home-Start UK, which celebrates its 50th anniversary this year. The charity has a rich history of reuniting volunteers with the families they have supported in the past, demonstrating the long-term positive changes in the lives of those they assist.

Jo Darke, Funding & Development Manager at Home Start Exeter, East, and Mid Devon, said: "Volunteers are the heart of our organisation," Jo continued. "We are always on the lookout for more dedicated individuals to join our team. The role of a volunteer is a significant commitment, but with strong support and extensive training, they make a profound difference in the lives of local families."

The charity relies heavily on funding from trusts and the lottery, but it also seeking ongoing support through volunteering, donations and fundraising events.

"We are delighted to support Home-Start Exeter, East, and Mid Devon with this donation," said Nicki Reid, Sales Director at Barratt David Wilson Homes Exeter. “At Barratt Homes, we believe in giving back to the communities where we build. We are proud to contribute to Home-Start’s vital work and look forward to seeing the positive impact this donation will have on local families."

"This generous donation from Barratt Homes will help us continue our mission and support more families in need," Jo added. "We encourage anyone interested in supporting our cause to get involved, whether through volunteering or financial contributions."

For more information on Home-Start Exeter, East, and Mid Devon, or to learn how you can help, please visit www.homestarteemd.org.uk.