Home-Start Aberdeen is celebrating after being awarded a significant boost of almost £250,000 in National Lottery funding to continue its work supporting families across the city over the next three years.
Following the news of recent funding cuts impacting similar Home-Start schemes across Scotland, this funding success signifies and solidifies the commitment from Home-Start Aberdeen to be there for local families who need their services.
The new funding from The National Lottery Community Fund, which distributes money raised by National Lottery players for good causes and is the largest community funder in the UK, will support the charity respond to a growing number of families in need of practical and emotional support and continue delivering its long-standing volunteer-led home visiting service.
This funding comes at a critical time as the charity continues to see a sharp rise in demand for its services and increasing complexity of need from the families it supports.
Cameron McCready
“We’re delighted that The National Lottery Community Fund has recognised our work in this way. This funding is one of the largest awards Home-Start Aberdeen has ever received”, said Cameron McCready, Chief Executive of Home-Start Aberdeen. “We are incredibly grateful to the National Lottery for recognising the impact of our work and continuing their support for our mission to help parents build confidence and resilience during difficult times.”
The charity has seen a marked rise in referrals as families face mounting pressures from cost-of-living increases, social isolation, and health-related challenges. Home-Start Aberdeen matches trained volunteers with families to provide practical and emotional support in the home, working primarily with those who have at least one child under five.
Cameron added, “Thanks to National Lottery players and the National Lottery Community Fund, we will be able to help ensure that Home-Start Aberdeen remains open, active and fully committed to helping families throughout Aberdeen City.”
For over 30 years, Home-Start Aberdeen has provided practical and emotional support to families with young children. Through the dedication of its trained volunteers and staff, the charity helps prevent family crisis and breakdown, offering tailored, accessible, and non-judgemental support where it is needed most.
To find out more, make a referral for support or apply to volunteer, visit www.homestartaberdeen.org.uk.