As the decorations come down and the new year begins, many families across Aberdeen are facing one of the toughest times of the year.
While January is often seen as a fresh start, for families already struggling it can mark the point where Christmas debts, cold weather and reduced social contact combine to create a perfect storm.
Here in Aberdeen, Home-Start is seeing growing demand for its services, particularly around mental health support, rising energy and food costs, and social isolation.
Home-Start volunteers step in at moments like these, offering practical help with budgeting, emotional support and, crucially, human connection. By spending just a few hours a week with a family, volunteers help parents rebuild confidence, reduce isolation and create a more stable home for their children.
Last year, Home-Start Aberdeen supported 201 families with 305 children under 5 across the city. The demand for support remains high as winter continues.
Over 75% of referrals received in 2025 were linked to parental mental health. Requests for support related to cost-of-living pressures, utility bills and food security remain at their highest recorded levels.
For families with young children, isolation can be particularly challenging during the winter months. Short days, bad weather and limited resources can leave parents feeling cut off from friends, family and support networks.
That’s why Home-Start is now calling on people across Aberdeen to consider volunteering.
Cameron McCready, chief executive of Home-Start Aberdeen, said: "At Home-Start Aberdeen, we see every day how small acts of kindness and understanding can transform a family. Our volunteers make an incredible difference, offering comfort, hope, and connection when families need it most. Our volunteers don’t need to be experts, just good listeners who want to make a difference. The support they offer can be life-changing.”
Nationally, Home-Start supported 58,850 families and more than 75,000 children last year, helping parents through some of the most challenging periods of their lives.
This January, Home-Start Aberdeen is urging anyone who has a few hours to spare and a desire to help local families to get involved. With the right support, parents don’t have to face these challenges alone, and volunteers are at the heart of making that possible.
To find out more about volunteering with Home-Start visit: www.homestartaberdeen.org.uk or call the team on 01224 693545.