Dorset charities deliver help to local families  

Families in Dorset will benefit from a grant which aims to strengthen family relationships, improve community wellbeing and help families thrive and feel supported.  

The Families First for Children Pathfinder (FFCP) Grant Programme was set up to improve localised support offered to families. So far 11 voluntary and community sector projects have received grant funding from Dorset Council.   

Local charities and community groups are working together with the Dorset Voluntary and Community Sector Assembly (VCSA) to make these projects happen and reach out to families across Dorset.   

Thanks to the funding, Home-Start Wessex has started new family support groups in Weymouth and Wimborne for expectant (mums-to-be) and new parents. In the coming months, they plan to open an additional three groups, based in the Family Hub settings in Bridport, Dorchester, and Swanage. 

Belinda Hewett, Head of Operations from Home Start Wessex, said: “We are a dedicated team of family support staff and specially trained volunteers who provide non-judgmental, personal interventions that aim to improve mental health, boost confidence, and encourage parents to engage with local family hubs and other community services.  

“We focus on the first 1,001 days of a child's life. This is an important time for growth and development. So far we have helped thirty families with our approach of personalised support.”  

Dorset Mind and DorPip have also started a new program called “Mums Matter”. This project is being introduced to help new mothers with their mental health and is based on the successful national MIND support model, which has been delivered across the UK.  

Erica Johnstone, Mums Matter Project Lead, from DorPip, said: “Mums Matter is an eight-week course designed by women with personal experience of mental health issues during and after pregnancy. It equips mums with practical tools and strategies to manage their wellbeing, including relaxation techniques, particularly during early motherhood when they need it most.  There’s even childcare available, so more mums can participate easily.  

“We know it is going to be really popular so we encourage mums who may benefit from this support to reach out.”  

The first Mums Matter course will launch at Wareham Family Hub in April 2025, marking the beginning of this essential support in Dorset. To register your interest, email mumsmatter@dorsetmind.uk.  

Discussions are progressing with The Vale Family Hub to establish a second group, and further collaboration with Home-Start Blackmore Vale is underway to secure a North Dorset base and refine the programme’s branding and accessibility. A creche will be provided at all venues, so that mums can join the program easily.   

Councillor Clare Sutton, Dorset Council Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, Education and Skills, said: “The Families First for Children Pathfinder Programme represents a significant increase in localised support for families across Dorset.   

“These programmes aim to provide practical support, foster connections among parents, and give families the skills they need to thrive. Families First for Children local projects are here to help families in Dorset be happy and healthy.  

“With eleven dedicated projects already funded across Dorset, the programme is well on the way to meeting its aims. It’s great to see such valuable contributions already in place from Home-Start Wessex and Dorset Mind/ DorPip and I am looking forward to seeing more local charities and community groups come together to strengthen family relationships and promote wellbeing.”  

To keep providing support for families, Home-Start Wessex is keen to keep recruiting dedicated volunteers. If you can spare just 2-3 hours a week, your help could make a life-changing difference. To learn more about how you can get involved and support families in need, please visit their website at www.homestartwessex.org.uk