Mission Statement Home-Start offers support, friendship and practical help to parents with young children, in local communities throughout the UK and with British Forces in Germany and Cyprus. Core Belief Home-Start believes that children need a happy and secure childhood and that parents play the key role in giving their children a good start in life and helping them achieve their full potential. Aims Each Home-Start scheme is an independent voluntary organisation which works towards the increased confidence and independence of the family by: • offering support, friendship and practical assistance • visiting families in their own homes, where the dignity and identity of each individual can be respected and protected • reassuring parents that difficulties in bringing up children are not unusual and encouraging enjoyment in family life • developing a relationship with the family in which time can be shared and understanding can be developed; the approach is flexible to take account of different needs • encouraging the parents’ strengths and emotional well-being for the ultimate benefit of their own children • encouraging families to widen their network of relationships and to use effectively the support and services available within the community.