West Berkshire should be a borough where everyone has the chance of a decent and secure life. Instead, many families, a large proportion of them working families, are struggling to make ends meet. It has become a heart-breaking aspect of our day to day work. In April 2021, we developed a project when we recognised that a disproportionate amount of families were struggling to make ends meet following the global pandemic.
The project that maximising family income its focus, supporting families with skills to help them now and in the future. The project has just completed it’s first year and we are delighted to share the impact of our work. With many families already experiencing the impact of the cost of living crisis, we know this experience of working with families in poverty will stand us in good stead for the challenges to come.
Key Statistics:
- 32 families were supported by the project and 127 individuals
- 62% are eligible for free school meals
- We have supported 56% to access the Foodbank
- 100% have been supported with budgeting and energy saving
One mum said, “I honestly don’t know how I would have got through such a traumatic time without Home-Start’s support and kindness. Practical help such as the Foodbanks, support at home, support at Christmas and emotional support was what I needed and was so invaluable.” You can read the full report here: Preventing Family Poverty Year 1 Evaluation.