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Home-Start UK

@homestartuk.bsky.social
128 followers 4 following 59 posts

We're a national charity supporting families across the UK. We believe that children deserve the best start in life. Visit home-start.org.uk to find out more.

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Home-Start UK @homestartuk.bsky.social · 26/11/2025
Home-Start Co-CEOs comment welcome the #Budget decision to cut the two-child limit. Read the story: www.home-start.org.uk/home-start-c...
home-start.org.uk
Home-Start Co-CEOs welcome the decision to cut two-child limit
Following the Autumn budget, Home-Start CEOs welcome the Government’s decision to cut the two-child limit from April 2026
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Home-Start UK @homestartuk.bsky.social · 25/09/2025
We're incredibly proud to have been shortlisted for an Investors in People Award for Employer of the Year Silver. Home-Start UK has worked very hard to be a great place to work, so it’s wonderful to see that recognised 💜 @investorsinpeople.bsky.social
Investors in People Awards 2025 finalist badge
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Home-Start UK @homestartuk.bsky.social · 10/09/2025
Independent article featuring Mike's story - a dad who was supported by Dad Matters & Home-Start who went on to become the Health Inequalities Coordinator for Dad Matters. He shares wanting to end his life but his baby Atlas waking up, & the support of Dad Matters got him through bit.ly/46d08TP
bit.ly
The reality behind the ‘hidden crisis’ of suicide among new fathers
As new research finds that seven times as many fathers have taken their own life compared to mothers, Olivia Petter asks what can be done
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Home-Start UK @homestartuk.bsky.social · 10/09/2025
Coverage in the Independent sharing the research findings: Seven times as many fathers died by suicide in their baby’s first 1,001 days compared with mothers. www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/home...
independent.co.uk
Concerns over ‘hidden crisis’ of suicide among new fathers
A study from Wales highlights rates of suicide among new fathers.
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Home-Start UK @homestartuk.bsky.social · 10/09/2025
We've been sharing some hard-hitting facts in the run up to #WorldSuicidePreventionDay to shine a light on paternal mental health. Join us online this evening to celebrate with 1001 Critical Days Foundation & its mission of supporting parents and carers to give their baby the best start in life.
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Home-Start UK @homestartuk.bsky.social · 10/09/2025
Home-Start are proud to partner with The 1001 Critical Days Foundation to roll out Dad Matters nationally and to give every baby's dad the support he deserves. #HomeStart #1001CriticalDays #DadMatters #AllDadsMatter
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Home-Start UK @homestartuk.bsky.social · 10/09/2025
Hear from a supported dad, Mike, Dad Matters Project Lead Kieran and other guest speakers including Lord David Blunkett.  Book your free spot here: bit.ly/4m5qzkp
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Home-Start UK @homestartuk.bsky.social · 10/09/2025
We’ve been sharing some hard-hitting facts in the run up to World Suicide Prevention Day to shine a light on paternal mental health. Join us online tonight 6-7pm with 1001 Critical Days Foundation supporting their mission to support parents & carers to give their baby the best start in life.
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Home-Start UK @homestartuk.bsky.social · 08/09/2025
The perinatal period - from conception to a child’s second birthday - is a time of profound transition for families.  When we talk about perinatal mental health, it’s time to talk about dads too.  Because for every baby, their dad matters.
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Home-Start UK @homestartuk.bsky.social · 05/09/2025
Becoming a parent changes everything. The perinatal period is exciting, exhausting, overwhelming - and dads feel it too. Here are some stats that shine a light on dads perinatal mental health.
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Home-Start UK @homestartuk.bsky.social · 28/08/2025
We were delighted to join Home-Start Glasgow North & North Lanarkshire for the official opening of their new Family Hub in Maryhill. It was opened by the First Minister of Scotland, and represents a pioneering approach to early years family support and is the first of its kind in Glasgow.
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Home-Start UK @homestartuk.bsky.social · 06/08/2025
We’re delighted to be working with The Royal Foundation Centre for Early Childhood as an early adopter of their seven beautifully animated films that bring to life the science of early brain development. Watch & share: www.youtube.com/playlist?lis... Photo credit: Kensington Palace/Andy Parsons]
The Princess of Wales is smiling looking down at a picture frame she is holding. She is wearing a bottle green suit and is stood next to a man who is smiling too, he wears a navy shirt and trousers. Behind them is a woman who is also smiling glancing at the frame. She is wearing a cream jumpsuit with a grey cardigan. They appear to be at the Centre for Early Childhood.
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Home-Start UK @homestartuk.bsky.social · 29/07/2025
We’re thrilled our partnership with SGN has made a significant impact on keeping people safe & warm. We’re proud to be featured in their annual vulnerability report, showcasing the power of collaboration. Head to page 30 & 35 on the report to find out more: sgn.co.uk/news/sgn-sup...
A mother, toddler and baby happily playing with children’s toys. White text in a dark blue circle says: proud to partner with SGN keeping everyone safe and warm.
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Home-Start UK @homestartuk.bsky.social · 10/07/2025
Almost 40,000 MORE children are missing out on the support they need because of the 2-child limit than there were last year. Keir Starmer, what are you waiting for? The UK Government must urgently scrap the two-child limit.
A projection on the Houses of Parliament shows a Great Britain flag with the text SCRAP TWO-CHILD LIMITA projection on the Houses of Parliament shows a Great Britain flag with the text 4.5 MILLION CHILDREN IN POVERTYA projection on the Houses of Parliament, a blue square with the words POVERTY LIMITS CHILDHOOD.
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Home-Start UK @homestartuk.bsky.social · 08/07/2025
We're feeling hopeful after yesterday's briefings about the Government's plans to roll out 1000 Family Hubs across England. We saw a strong desire to place the early years firmly on the agenda & support that reaches the families who need it most, especially in our most disadvantaged communities.
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Home-Start UK @homestartuk.bsky.social · 07/07/2025
We're really pleased to see the Family Hub announcement and look forward to seeing the details of the plan later today. Read our statement from our interim CEO, Vivien here: www.home-start.org.uk/home-start-welcomes-family-hub-annoucement/
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Home-Start UK @homestartuk.bsky.social · 04/07/2025
Mari is a Deaf mum who'd never had support like what she received from Home-Start Greenwich, it changed her life.  You can read Mari's story in Family Matters magazine. Read it here www.home-start.org.uk/family-matter…
Teal graphic with yellow speech marks has a quote in white text that reads Thanks to Home-Start I’ve gained strength and improved my relationship with my children.

I’ve never had anything like this. Never. They saved my life.
Mari, mum supported by Home-Start Greenwich
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Home-Start UK @homestartuk.bsky.social · 01/07/2025
We were delighted to welcome Manchester Central MP Lucy Powell & Rt Hon. Dame Andrea Leadsom to Woodville Family Hub in Cheetham last week. Lucy & Andrea met with parents supported by Home-Start Manchester. Read the news story 👉 www.home-start.org.uk/news/home-st...
A group of people are sat having a discussion with Lucy Powell and Dame Andrea Leadsom.A group of people are stood smiling in the family centre, with Lucy Powell and Dame Andrea Leadsom.
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Home-Start UK @homestartuk.bsky.social · 14/06/2025
During the first 1001 days, from conception to age 2, babies’ growing brains are shaped by their experiences.   Every smile, every cuddle, every contact and every connection lays the foundations for future development.   #IMHAW2025 #MentalHealthMatters #InfantMentalHealth
White graphic has large teal quotation marks with purple text that reads the parent-child connection is the most powerful mental health intervention known to mankind. Bessel Van der Kolk. There are two illustrations of different parents with their children.
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Home-Start UK @homestartuk.bsky.social · 12/06/2025
1/4 - We’re very excited to announce that we have appointed Natalie Acton and @jodier.bsky.social as our new Co-CEOs. Natalie and Jodie are the first Co-CEOs in our 50 year history, and they will start work in September 2025.
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Home-Start UK @homestartuk.bsky.social · 11/06/2025
The theme for #IMHAW2025  is ‘who’s holding the baby?’ and we want to ask, who’s holding you as parents too? Our volunteers provide practical and emotional support to families which helps reduce stress and overwhelm – allowing parents space to develop a positive early relationship.
Graphic shows a circle model where HomeStart support staff and volunteers, HomeStart staff and volunteers create a safe place for parents and carers, parents can achieves family dreams with a infant with a loving relationship in a heart in the middle.
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Home-Start UK @homestartuk.bsky.social · 11/06/2025
1/4 - We are delighted to read Everything to Play For, the final report from the #RaisingtheNationPlayCommission and we wholeheartedly support the report’s recommendations.
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Home-Start UK @homestartuk.bsky.social · 10/06/2025
Research shows us that our first 1001 days are the most important. Our early intervention at Home-Start acts as a building block for a child’s development. Want to know more? Watch this video: www.youtube.com/watch?v=7taRqgb_v8E #IMHAW2025 #MentalHealthMatters #InfantMentalHealth
youtube.com
Enjoy the videos and music that you love, upload original content and share it all with friends, family and the world on YouTube.
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Home-Start UK @homestartuk.bsky.social · 09/06/2025
Today is the start of #InfantMentalHealthAwarenessWeek 💜 An important week to us at Home-Start that aims to raise awareness of infant mental health and the importance of early intervention support.  #IMHAW2025 #MentalHealthMatters #InfantMentalHealth
White graphic with purple text that reads Infant Mental Health Awareness Week with a graphic of purple baby feet with hearts. There is an orange circle with a photo of a baby sat on his mum's knee smiling, she is looking at him. At the bottom is the Home-Start logo and the IMHAW logo.
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Home-Start UK @homestartuk.bsky.social · 03/06/2025
We’re one of 70+ orgs united in standing with the Prime Minister’s commitment to the early years. Together, we’re urging @Keir_Starmer to support children and families from conception to reception by making this ambition a reality at the #SpendingReview2025 Read more here: buff.ly/RVogQQq
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Home-Start UK @homestartuk.bsky.social · 03/06/2025
We stand behind @Keir_Starmer’s focus on early childhood in his Plan for Change. Now is the time to invest so that every child, from conception to reception, has the Best Start in Life: buff.ly/RVogQQq  #BestStartInLife #SpendingReview2025
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Home-Start UK @homestartuk.bsky.social · 23/05/2025
If this is true, it is incredibly disappointing. Home-Starts are seeing ever increasing numbers of families struggling with low incomes and rising prices. The Government owes it to them all to set out a serious and credible strategy for ending child poverty. Babies and children can't wait.
theguardian.com
No 10 delays child poverty strategy with tens of thousands more facing hardship
Exclusive: Flagship policy put back until at least autumn amid fears cost of removing two-child benefit cap will outweigh political benefit
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Home-Start UK @homestartuk.bsky.social · 22/05/2025
A new report from the IFS highlights the lasting impact that Sure Start had for children & shows what can be achieved with sufficient investment and commitment to creating change. Long-term health benefits, reduced hospitalisations, higher GCSE results, savings and reduced offending to name a few.
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Inside Croydon @insidecroydon.bsky.social · 14/05/2025
86% of families report struggles with cost of living pressures insidecroydon.com/2025/05/14/8... #Croydon #CroydonInCrisis @homestartuk.bsky.social
insidecroydon.com
86% of families report struggles with cost of living pressures
Research from family support charity Home-Start London has found that nearly 9 in 10 of the London families they help say that money worries are making parenting harder. The findings, released duri…
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Home-Start UK @homestartuk.bsky.social · 22/05/2025
Interesting article showing the importance of early invention saving the public purse down the line. This is reflected in our work and school readiness programme - supporting children to learn from day one. A programme we're really proud of. www.newstatesman.com/politics/soc...
newstatesman.com
Child poverty is a scar on our national conscience
A Labour government has taken millions of children out of poverty before. It can do so again.
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Home-Start UK @homestartuk.bsky.social · 14/05/2025
It's #MentalHealthAwarenessWeek - an important week shining a light on mental health which can affect us all 💜 We're here to encourage you to take those small steps to help your mental health - take anything from the menu, speak to friends, your GP, or contact us for extra support.
Purple graphic with a title in yellow text reads mental health menu. There are yellow headers that read starter, main, dessert with wellbeing tips underneath like go for a walk, crafting, yoga, plan something fun, journaling, no screen time etc.
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Home-Start UK @homestartuk.bsky.social · 09/05/2025
Parenting in London is tough, Home-Start London have produced a report. The findings from the research are clear, families with young children need more support & they need it earlier. Read the report bit.ly/437QCA7 #MaternalMentalHealth #MaternalMHmatters #HomeStartSupport #SupportForParents
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Home-Start UK @homestartuk.bsky.social · 08/05/2025
Mum Sam was hospitalised for postpartum psychosis, a time so traumatic her recollections are ‘hazy’. One thing remains crystal clear – the support & friendship she received from Marie, her Home-Start volunteer. Watch Sam’s story here (you may want some tissues handy! 🥹) youtu.be/1UJCwl5glJM
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Home-Start UK @homestartuk.bsky.social · 07/05/2025
Awareness weeks like #MaternalMentalHealthWeek help to open the door to conversation about mental health. It’s brave to ask for help. It’s brave to accept help. It’s brave to open your door to a Home-Start volunteer. It’s brave to talk about how you honestly feel.   #MaternalMHMatters
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Home-Start UK @homestartuk.bsky.social · 07/05/2025
Our first national Thank You Day was a day full of kindness, thank yous and positive vibes! 😊 Here's a story celebrating a volunteer for his work with neurodivergent children at family groups www.the-gazette.co.uk/news/2513797...
the-gazette.co.uk
'Lovely role model': Renfrewshire volunteer recognised for supporting local families
A volunteer from Renfrewshire has been recognised for his efforts by a family support charity.
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Home-Start UK @homestartuk.bsky.social · 06/05/2025
Mums can wear the mask of “I’m fine.” We want to remind you that multiple feelings can be true at the same time.   You can love your child and find it hard, and not want to be in the room when they’re crying again, and miss aspects of your old life. #MaternalMentalHealthWeek #MaternalMHMatters
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Together (Scottish Alliance for Children's Rights) @together-sacr.bsky.social · 02/05/2025
📣Our member @homestartuk.bsky.social recruiting for "People & Recruitment Officer" #JobSearchTogether #CharityJobs 🗓️Closing Date: 15 May 2025 📍Home working View here: www.togetherscotland.org.uk/news-and-eve...
"Members are recruiting" with a megaphone at right hand side. Graphic.
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Home-Start UK @homestartuk.bsky.social · 06/05/2025
Supported mum Naomi shared her #Postnatal story in this article www.independent.co.uk/life-style/h... #MaternalMentalHealth
independent.co.uk
Postnatal depression: Three brave mothers on their experience after birth
Postnatal depression affects about one in ten women within a year of giving birth
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Home-Start UK @homestartuk.bsky.social · 05/05/2025
Today marks the start of #MaternalMentalHealthWeek 💜 An important week to us at Home-Start that aims to raise awareness of maternal mental health problems throughout pregnancy and beyond.  Look out for our posts this week as we shine a light on maternal mental health.
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Home-Start UK @homestartuk.bsky.social · 02/05/2025
Want to hear more about the royal visit that happened this week?  The Prince and Princess of Wales saw first-hand how Home-Start Lorn are supporting families on the island of Mull. Read the full story here:
bit.ly
Prince and Princess of Wales visit Home-Start Lorn
The Prince and Princess of Wales have seen first-hand how Home-Start Lorn are supporting families on the island of Mull when they visited Aros Hall in Tobermory, on Tuesday 29 April.
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Home-Start UK @homestartuk.bsky.social · 27/04/2025
Sending good wishes to all Home-Start runners today! You've got this! 👟 If you're watching at home look out for Home-Start purple t-shirts. Our cheer team will be at mile 13 and 22 encouraging everyone along the way.
Purple graphic with white text that reads Good luck to our London Marathon runners today! There is an orange circle with an image of a woman running and waving at the camera. There is an illustration of running trainers and a medal, the Home-Start logo sits in the bottom right corner.
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Home-Start UK @homestartuk.bsky.social · 16/04/2025
We're v excited to be at the Campaign Magazine Awards tonight. 'We Answer The Cries You Don’t Hear' is up for a Content Strategy award. Amazing to be shortlisted with Natwest, @channel4.bsky.social Deliveroo & Currys  Whatever the outcome, we're proud to be shortlisted 💜 #CXMediaAwards
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Home-Start UK @homestartuk.bsky.social · 07/04/2025
We're pleased to announce that our website makeover goes live tomorrow! This means, that our website won't be available from around 2-4am on Tuesday 8 April.  We'll be back up and running looking fresh before you know it 🙂
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Home-Start UK @homestartuk.bsky.social · 20/03/2025
Not only is it International Day of Happiness and the first day of Spring, it's the Smiley Charity Film Awards where our 'Anxiety' film is nominated. If you want to watch along, tune in at 8pm smileymovement.org/charity-film-awa…    Keep you fingers crossed for us!
A still from the anxiety video - a mum stands by the door with her coat pulled down her shoulders. White text reads Home-Start's first ever TV advertising campaign nominated. There is a smiley charity film awards graphic that says we're finalists and a yellow circle that reads tune in tonight at 8pm
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Home-Start UK @homestartuk.bsky.social · 19/03/2025
It's Neurodiversity Celebration Week - a week that challenges stereotypes and misconceptions about neurological differences. Here's a snippet of our Healthy, Happy, Home video, focused on play and neurodiversity.  Watch the full version here: youtu.be/qlZ4TJwT9bE
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Home-Start UK @homestartuk.bsky.social · 07/03/2025
It's Friday! Share your parenting wins for the week 👇
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Home-Start UK @homestartuk.bsky.social · 05/03/2025
🚨@together-sacr.bsky.social has exciting news to share #TinyRightsDetectives "Exploring Pathways to Justice for Babies" #BabyUNCRC They explored with us how families raise concerns about babies’ rights & improve access to justice at workshops. Read the report here: bit.ly/3DvyaZ8
At the top left “tiny Rights Detectives logo” with magnifying glass a group of building blocks above “Exploring Pathways To Justice for Babies” with “Joining Together’s Report Launch, Wednesday 5th March 2025” and next to the left hand side is a lightbulb. At the bottom is a row of our friends logos – Craigmillar Trust Literacy, Home-Start UK, Home-Start Wigtownshire, Parenting Across Scotland, Play Scotland and Starcatchers.
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Together (Scottish Alliance for Children's Rights) @together-sacr.bsky.social · 05/03/2025
🙏 Thanks to members & friends in this project- - Craigmillar Literacy Trust - @homestartuk.bsky.social Wigtownshire - @playscotland.bsky.social - @starcatchersuk.bsky.social Great generosity in sharing expertise & @parentingscotland.bsky.social , Home-Start UK & Licketyspit for offering guidance
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Euan Wilmshurst @euanwilmshurst.bsky.social · 03/03/2025
🍽️ The cost-of-living crisis is forcing families to make impossible choices. @homestartuk.bsky.social & Cadent have launched a budget-friendly recipe book with meals from Home-Start families & top chefs. A real, practical solution. Order your copy here: www.home-start.org.uk/shop/cookbook
home-start.org.uk
Home-Start cookbook - £6.00
Introducing Home-Start's first ever cookbook! In partnership with Cadent, full of tried and tested, family favourite recipes. All the meals are cost-effective and designed to be easy to make in a slow...
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Home-Start UK @homestartuk.bsky.social · 05/03/2025
Hi BlueSky! We're here for families all across the UK. Never heard of us? Find out more here www.home-start.org.uk
home-start.org.uk
Home-Start UK
Home-Start is a local community network of trained volunteers and expert support helping families with young children through their challenging times. We are there for parents when they need us the mo...
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