Family Groups

Some families who are referred to Home-Start Dacorum prefer group support or enjoy the chance to meet and make new friends with other parents who live nearby. Our family groups provide a regular meeting place for families with at least one child under 5. If funding permits, transport may be provided to and from a weekly group.

What is a Home-Start family group?

Family groups are usually held once a week and last for up to 2 hours. They are informal and the atmosphere is always welcoming and friendly. There are activities and play equipment for the children - and coffee, tea, drinks and healthy snacks are provided for everyone.

Parents say they enjoy the chance to relax and make new friends, share ideas and experiences, find new interests, gain self-confidence and generally take advantage of the activities on offer.

Qualified and experienced Home-Start Dacorum staff and committed volunteers organise the activities and are always available to provide a 'listening ear' if needed.

How to join a family group

For more information about family groups in your area you can contact us or ask your health visitor, social worker, midwife or GP. The usual referral process takes place prior to a family being offered a place at a family group.

Where are family groups held?

We have one Group running at Gadebridge Community Centre (Gadebridge Family Group) and this is open to any residents in Dacorum, once they have been referred to Home-Start Dacorum. The second group runs at St. Benedicts Church Hall in Bennett's End (Bennett's End Family Group) and is only open to families in Bennett's End, Leverstock Green and other areas covered by Green Lane Children's Centre, once the family has a referral to Home-Start Dacorum. (Family Groups run by Home-Start Dacorum are NOT run from Children's Centres).

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