Local charity Home-Start Watford and Three Rivers is finding new and creative ways to help those who are currently facing difficult times.
During the social distancing measures put in place due to corona virus, many vulnerable families are going without the support that they need.
In order to keep within regulations and still offer essential care, Home-Start volunteers are picking up their phones and virtually reaching out to those needing support.
Home-Start Watford and Three Rivers supports hundreds of families each year who are dealing with mental and physical health concerns, risk of domestic abuse, and behavioural issues, to name but a few.
While the charities numerous volunteers cannot offer their usual home-visiting service, they have been making calls to the affected families.
The tireless volunteers have been making over 100 calls a week to families in distress.
Typically, up to 50 families a week would receive home-visits, but due to a huge increase in demand and by using telephone and video links, the charity has doubled the number of families it can help.
These calls and outreach have allowed families a vital chance to connect with someone outside their home and communicate any worries they are facing.
The volunteers can also dispel any COVID-19 myths and help talk families down from places of high anxiety.
Scheme manager and CEO, Emma Power said: “I am incredibly worried for the vulnerable children and families facing potentially devastating effects of hardship and family breakdown in these difficult times. Funding is enabling us to still reach out and provide support albeit in a different way.”
Home-Start have lost out on a crucial £26,000 of fundraising support.
This money is invaluable to offering support during the corona crisis, but also in the aftermath as they seek to rebuild children livelihoods and family lives.
If you would like to make a donation, however big or small, please visit uk.virginmoneygiving.com/fund/HSWTRsupportfund
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