AN organisation helping more than two dozen families in Helensburgh and Lomond is hoping to expand even further.

Home-Start Lomond launched less than a year ago, using trained volunteers to support families with young children - like having an aunt, uncle or family friend to offer practical, emotional or parenting advice.

Home-Start is a UK-wide network of trained volunteers helping families with young children. It's been running since 1973, but Helensburgh and Lomond hadn't had a branch until September last year.

The service is already working with about 30 families across Helensburgh and Lomond.

One mum, who asked not to be named, told the Advertiser: “My social worker suggested I let Home-Start Lomond help me with parenting techniques and to provide some emotional support to help keep home life stable.

Helensburgh Advertiser:

“Having someone there to encourage and cheer me on has made the biggest difference to my confidence.

"With my volunteer’s support, I’m now volunteering at my local church and the school. A year ago I could never have imagined doing that.

"Feeling helpful and capable is something I’ve never felt before.”

The group is now recruiting residents to help with the organisation and move towards making it an independent charity, part of a network of local groups linked to the national Home-Start charity.

Home-Start Lomond manager Laura Eales said even in only a few months they had seen "significant improvements in children’s behaviour and their relationship with their parents".

She said: “These changes are only possible due to the special relationship parents build up with their volunteers, who they clearly trust.

"Some of the parents we support have never experienced a positive home life, with routines and boundaries.

Helensburgh Advertiser:

"We take small steps and celebrate the wins. Whatever it is, it’s contributing to a supportive and nurturing home life for a child.”

Home-Start Lomond began with funding from the Royal Navy and the Royal Marines Charity, but is not limited to military families. It is avalable to any family with at least one child under the age of five.

A steering group is working to move Home-Start Lomond forward and recruit trustees for the organisation. Full training will be provided to all trustees, who need only commit to give around four hours a month to the organisation.

Laura added: “This is an incredibly valuable and rewarding opportunity for people who want to help our families and our organisation thrive and grow.

Helensburgh Advertiser:

"It isn’t a huge commitment of time, but it will make a huge difference to the lives of parents and children.”

If you are interested or would like an informal chat about what’s involved, contact admin@homestartlomond.org.uk.