Home-Start Wessex is standing alongside local families through the cost-of-living crisis, with a new appeal launched this month. The campaign aims to support families with young children by raising vital funds to continue their work through these challenging times.

The cost-of-living crisis is a disaster for millions of families, and the charity is asking the local community to support their appeal so they can provide compassionate, non-judgemental support because childhood can’t wait for the economy to recover. In a recent survey by Home-Start UK, 74% of families said they were expecting to need financial support this winter, with their children unable to sleep because they are cold and hungry.

In 2022, Home-Start Wessex helped a record 300 families across Bournemouth, Christchurch, Poole and beyond. Demand increased by 30% as more families struggled to cope and needed their help.