Home-Start Ealing offers both practical and emotional support to families with children under the age of five who are facing difficult circumstances.
“You can help make a difference. And that is an incredibly rewarding feeling,” says Caroline Chapman, director of Home-Start Ealing, a charity that has been supporting local families for nearly 30 years. Home-Start Ealing steps in at a crucial time—when families first reach out for help. With a dedicated team of volunteers, the charity provides vital early intervention, often acting as the last line of defence against the worst effects of poverty, isolation, or personal crises.
While the charity receives some funding from Ealing Council and works closely with its services, it relies heavily on volunteers, grants, donations, and fundraising efforts. For those looking to make a meaningful impact in the community, there are plenty of opportunities to get involved.
Supporting Families, Changing Lives
Home-Start Ealing offers both practical and emotional support to families with children under the age of five who are facing difficult circumstances. Whether they are dealing with post-natal depression, bereavement, financial struggles, loneliness, or poor health, the charity’s aim is to provide the right help at the right time.
Referrals come from GPs, health visitors, mental health services, and other local organisations, but families can also reach out directly if they need support. “When we meet a family, we first ask what they’d like to achieve,” explains Caroline. “A volunteer then visits their home for two hours a week, usually over a period of three to six months—sometimes longer if needed.
“It’s all about befriending and building confidence. The support we offer improves parents’ emotional wellbeing, and in turn, benefits their children.”
Becky Minhas, a volunteer and trustee at the charity, describes the volunteers as being like extended family members. “Many of the families we help don’t have a support network or a role model when it comes to parenting. Our volunteers often fill that gap.”
In addition to emotional support, Home-Start helps parents develop skills in play and behaviour management while encouraging them to connect with their local community through playgroups, toddler sessions, and other family-friendly activities.
“When we meet one of our families, we first ask what they’d like to achieve. Then one of our volunteers will start going to the family home 2 hours a week, over a 3-6month period – longer if needed.”
-Caroline Chapman, Director, Home-Start Ealing
Small Changes, Big Impact
After three months, the charity checks in with each family to assess how things are going. A final review at the end of the support period often reveals remarkable progress. “Families regularly talk about how much their lives have changed,” says Caroline. “It’s not just about short-term improvements—we’re talking about real turnarounds.”
One of the most important aspects of the work is strengthening the emotional bond between parent and child. Research shows that a secure attachment in early childhood can dramatically improve life chances, with benefits that can last for generations.
“If we intervene early, we can break cycles of disadvantage,” Caroline adds. “The impact doesn’t just help one child, but can positively affect their children and grandchildren too.”
The Reward of Volunteering
Volunteers play a central role in Home-Start Ealing’s success. Each volunteer receives extensive training and ongoing support.
“Our volunteers often say they get as much out of the experience as the families they support,” says Vicky Carter, one of the charity’s two coordinators. “Knowing that you’ve made a difference in someone’s life is incredibly fulfilling. “We’ve had retired volunteers tell us it gives them a sense of purpose and prevents loneliness. Others who are looking to return to work find that the training and experience they gain with us boosts their confidence and helps them secure a job.”
Beyond the work itself, Home-Start volunteers form a close-knit community. Social events such as coffee mornings and lunches provide opportunities to connect, share experiences, and offer mutual support.
“The perfect full circle happens when a parent who once received support comes back as a volunteer to help others,” says Vicky. “It’s a testament to the impact Home-Start can have.” Caroline agrees: “Some of our volunteers go on to become trustees or take on leadership roles within the charity. It’s inspiring to see their journey.”
Could You Volunteer?
Home-Start Ealing is always looking for volunteers from diverse backgrounds who want to give back to their community. Anyone with parenting experience—whether with their own children or through a caring role—can apply, and additional language skills are a bonus.
If you’re not able to volunteer, there are still ways to help. Donations are always welcome, and the charity has launched a fundraising initiative with a specially designed Home-Start tea towel created by service users.
To find out more, call 020 8842 1617 or visit the Home-Start Ealing website.
