Home-Start Wessex Groups
All of our groups are run by expert staff and trained volunteers. These groups provide a safe and welcoming setting where parents can meet to gain new skills, improve confidence and make new friends.
If you are interested in any of these groups, please ask your health professional to refer you or attend one of our drop-ins.
Family Groups
For parents of children under 5 who are struggling with emotional, physical, or mental health needs. We aim to help both children and parents to develop their confidence to overcome anxiety and isolation, whilst increasing their parenting skills and knowledge. We encourage and nurture supportive networks within the local community and address the individual and often complex needs of each family. Weekly groups will provide:
- Outcome-based support and assessments of need for each individual family
- Individual plans which are regularly reviewed
- A supportive network with other parents
- Strategies leading to improved child/parent relationships
- Information and support around child development
- Early Year’s framework for school readiness
Drop-In Group
An isolation-busting community-based drop-in group, the magic of Home-Start without the targeted support packages or referrals, no questions asked. Complete an induction form only, for local families in Dorset and visiting. A wide range of activities for the children and parents. We will offer support and information for families, snacks and drinks provided with an overall sense of belonging.
We aim to help both children and parents to further develop parenting abilities whilst increasing their skills and knowledge. We encourage and nurture supportive networks within the local community.
Twins Group
A specially-tailored group in a fantastic setting, aimed at supporting the unique needs which come with twins and multiple birth. Bringing their own personal experiences, you will receive a warm welcome by fully-trained staff and volunteers. A relaxed opportunity to meet with other multiple birth parents. From pregnancy and up to under 5.
Bumps and Babies
For some women, their journey through pregnancy, birth and the initial postnatal period can be difficult. Support may be needed for many reasons: bereavement, anxiety, mental health needs, homelessness/poor housing, or other challenges. Feeling isolated or having trouble connecting with the local community can impact across all aspects of life especially during pregnancy.
Home-Start believes that the basic social support can make an enormous difference to the life of the most vulnerable families. We liaise with other organisations in the community helping woman to build a wider support network and access practical resources.
The focus within group is to provide non-judgemental and emotional support, whilst tackling isolation. Home-Start helps by promoting self-esteem, reducing isolation, and connecting families to their local community.
Weekly groups will provide:
- Outcome-based support and assessments of need for each individual family
- Individual plans which are regularly reviewed
- A supportive network with other parents
- Strategies leading to improved child/parent relationships
- Information and support around child development
- Trauma Birth Recovery
Homeless Mums
We also provide groups for homeless mums; for more information, click here.
The section below lists the details for all our current groups. Please use our contact us page to find out more.
Dandelions Support Group
Group Type: Referral & drop in
A friendly support group for military and local families with babies and children under 5.
Where: Community Room, Bovington Welfare Office, King George V Road, Bovington, BH20 6JQ (Link)
When: Mondays 9.45am – 11.15am
Dorchester Haven
Group Type: Referral & drop in
A warm and relaxed group for families with babies and children under 5.
Where: Dorchester Family Hub, Charles Street, Dorchester, DT1 1EE (Link)
When: Mondays 9.45am – 11.15am
Twins & Multiple Births Group
Group Type: Referral & drop in
A specially tailored group aimed at supporting the unique needs which come with twins and multiple births – from pregnancy to up to 5 years old
Where: Wimborne Family Hub, Gordon Road, Wimborne, BH21 1AP (Link)
When: Mondays 10 – 11.30am
Kinson Haven
Group Type: Referral only
A welcoming family support group, for families with toddlers under 5 to play, connect and build confidence.
Where: Home-Start Wessex Office, 1462 Wimborne Road, Kinson, Bournemouth, BH10 7AS (Link)
When: Tuesdays 10.30am – 12pm
Blossoming Buds Forest School
Group Type: Referral only
An outdoor, family group that takes place in an inclusive, nurturing woodland space.
Where: Tumbledown Community Growspace, Radipole Lane, Weymouth, DT4 9RU (Link)
When: Tuesdays 10am – 12pm
Seahorses Toddler Group
Group Type: Referral and Drop In
A friendly and supportive group for families with babies and children under 5.
Where: Herston Village Hall, Jubilee Road, Swanage, BH19 2SF (Link)
When: Wednesdays 9.30am – 11am
Littlemoor Haven
Group Type: Referral and drop in
A relaxed and welcoming group for families with babies and children under 5.
Where: Littlemoor Top Club, Louviers Road, Weymouth, DT3 6AY (Link)
When: Wednesday 10am – 11.30am
Kinson Bumps & Babies
Group Type: Referral Only
A friendly and supportive group for new parents and pregnant women offering connection, advice and a welcoming space to share the journey of early parenthood.
Where: Home-Start Wessex Office, 1462 Wimborne Road, Kinson, Bournemouth, BH10 7AS (Link)
When: Thursdays 10.30am – 12pm