Stories
Family Stories
Charlotte’s Story
Ever imagined how lonely life could feel? After moving to a small rural village with her two young sons, facing an abusive relationship breakdown, poor health and overwhelming isolation, life felt impossible. Then she found Home-Start. With the support of volunteers Vanessa and David, everything began to change. Read her full story to discover how Home-Start helped her find hope, confidence and connection again.
Harriet’s Story
After moving away from her support network, Harriet found herself isolated and struggling to balance caring for her children with her own health. When she became pregnant with her second child, she was referred to Home-Start – and this time, she didn’t have to face it alone. With nearly five years of consistent support from her volunteer, she found practical help, compassion and connection. Read her full story to discover how Home-Start helped turn an overwhelming experience into one she could face with confidence and support.
Emily’s Story
After becoming a mum unexpectedly, Emily struggled with post-natal depression, overwhelming anxiety and the constant challenges of living with a spinal condition. Feeling isolated and worried she was failing as a parent, she was nervous about accepting help – until she found Home-Start. With the support of her volunteer and connection with other families, she began to feel understood, rebuild her confidence and, most importantly, realise she wasn’t alone. Read her full story to discover how Home-Start helped her find space to breathe, cope and enjoy motherhood again.
Charlie’s Story
After Jack was born, his parents found themselves navigating countless specialists, appointments and treatments, carrying the huge responsibility of making sense of his care while feeling increasingly isolated. When they were introduced to Home-Start Butser and matched with Jane, everything began to feel more manageable. With her support, Jane helped Jack learn and develop through play while giving his parents much-needed reassurance, understanding and support. Read their full story to discover how Home-Start helped their family feel less alone and find hope amid the challenges.
Cally’s Story
When Jack was just two days old, he was diagnosed with a rare metabolic condition, followed by hydrocephalus, epilepsy and developmental challenges. As his needs grew, so did the exhaustion and isolation his family experienced. Then they were introduced to Home-Start Butser and matched with Jane, whose weekly support became a lifeline. From helping Jack develop his communication skills to giving his parents time to rest, support their other son and feel more confident about the future, Jane helped make life feel more manageable. Read their full story to discover how Home-Start helped this family find connection, confidence and a way forward.
Supporter Stories
Loadbalancer.org’s Story
As a Hampshire-based company, Loadbalancer.org wanted to do more than simply make a donation – they wanted their staff to get involved and build a partnership that reflected their values. When they discovered Home-Start Butser, their support began with regular corporate donations and grew to include fundraising, volunteering and opportunities for their whole team to get involved. The partnership has not only helped Home-Start support more local families, but has also brought their employees together around a shared sense of purpose. Read their full story to discover how supporting Home-Start has made a difference to their community, their people and their business.
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