Spotlight on: Homestart Norfolk

“That first step is going to feel impossible until you take it. But you’re stepping towards someone who gets it and once you do, everything looks different.”

Moving to a new area can be tough, but when that area is rural or isolated, things can be even tougher. Caroline New, Funding Manager at Homestart Norfolk explains why the services they are providing with funding from our Serving Families: On The Move programme, can make such a difference. 

“I’m so pleased that we are getting to do this really crucial piece of work there, especially if you’ve come from a busier base, or a less rural base. 

“We will be part of the welcome pack, to make sure new families are aware of us from day one. We’ve recruited an amazing family services co-ordinator that is specific to [RAF]Marham, so they will be present at the Hive as new families come in. 

“It’s often easier to pop into a group than it is to welcome a stranger into your home. Our co-ordinators are very good at spotting someone who’s arriving to a group for the first time.” 

Local groups and sessions become even more vital when posted to a rural location. At RAF Marham, there are around 3,900 personnel with around 25% having at least one child under five. Yet, there are limited local resources and poor transport links. This funding will enable Homestart to deliver a range of holistic sessions such as infant massage and music groups, as well as more one-to-one support for those most in need, to help those finding their feet to settle quicker and better. 

Family involvement is crucial to this model of support and plans to hold a ‘round-table’ event this year will ensure they hear directly from families about their challenges and experiences. And family involvement doesn’t stop there, with the team often looking to parents with experience of what it’s like to be the ‘new kid on the block’ with little ones in tow, to help support others. 

“One of our newest volunteers in Norfolk had support from Homestart a year ago, her child is now at school, and she’s like, absolutely, I want to do this!” 

Buy-in to the difference this early support can make is crucial. The Homestart team has crafted excellent relationships with both welfare staff on base as well as the HIVE team. Together, they have a greater awareness of the issues families face within these first early weeks and months; sometimes without their serving partner, who can be sent away at short notice within weeks of arrival meaning the family can be left to unpack those moving boxes and set up their new daily routine, alone.