About Home-Start

We are a voluntary organisation committed to promoting the welfare of families and children living in South Warwickshire

What we do

Home-Start South Warwickshire is one of more than 200 local Home-Start schemes which are run as small independent charities under the Home-Start UK umbrella. We are a local community network of trained volunteers who, together with expert staff, support struggling families with children under the age of five through their challenging times.

There for parents when they need us most

We support families facing mental health difficulties, post-natal depression, isolation, loneliness, the effects of domestic abuse and physical health problems (amongst others). These families receive emotional and practical support from us.

Our volunteers work alongside parents in their own homes to improve parenting skills, boost confidence and well-being, help with family management and establish social networks.

With Home-Start a family can be sure of support that is non-judgemental and confidential. There is no stigma attached to Home-Start’s help which is why so many referrers and parents contact us to ask for support.

The area we cover

Our scheme supports families with children under the age of 5 throughout South Warwickshire – towns of Stratford upon Avon, Bidford-on-Avon, Alcester, Shipston-on-Stour, Wellesbourne, Leamington Spa, Warwick, Kenilworth and Southam, and the surrounding villages

The earliest years make a big difference. Home-Start helps to make those years count, so no child's future is limited.

Our team

The team are responsible for the delivery of our services and strategy. Together, they ensure we’re here for families when they need us most, that our volunteers are trained and supported and that our service remains effective, reaching as many in our communities as possible.

Meet our team:

Marie Ashford – Charity Operations Manager

Emma Gurdag – Family Support Manager

Mel Pritchard – Volunteer Coordinator

Ros Bishop - Volunteer Coordinator

Jemma Bonner – Community Partnership Manager

Caroline Pepperell – Finance & Administration Manager

Our trustees

Our Board of trustees, like other volunteers, give their time and experience to make our organisation the best it can be.

Our Board is responsible for setting the direction of our organisation, strategic decisions, governance and legal compliance. Working closely with the Leadership Team, Trustees are essential to the operation of our charity.

Meet our Board of Trustees: