Home-Start Stroud and Gloucester
There for parents when they need us most,
because childhood can't wait
Here for you and your family
Free, confidential support for parents with children under 5 in Stroud District and Gloucester.
Who we support
You can get support if you:
- Live in Stroud District or Gloucester
- Have one or more children under 5
- Are going through a difficult time
Families contact us for many reasons – big or small. You don’t need to be “at crisis point” to ask for help.
Home‑Visiting Support
One‑to‑one support in your home
A trained volunteer can visit you weekly for around 2–3 hours, offering emotional and practical support tailored to your family.
Support may include:
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Someone to listen
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Time and space for you
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Help with your children
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Reassurance and confidence building
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Support to access local services
Home-Start Groups Programmes
Friendly groups to support you and your child
We offer a range of supportive group programmes across Stroud District and Quedgeley.
Our groups include:
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Best Start – for parents and newborn babies (6 sessions)
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Bump Start – for expectant parents (6 sessions)
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Mothers in Mind – mental health support for mums (10 sessions)
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Playstart – weekly play sessions (term time only, Nailsworth)
If you would like to talk to someone about the groups telephone 01453 821085.
Dad Matters in Gloucestershire
Launched in 2021: Dad Matters Gloucestershire exists to support dads to have the best possible relationship with their families.
We aim to:
- Help dads have positive relationships with their families
- Support dads with their wellbeing and mental health
- Encourage dad’s participation in services that have traditionally been targeted for mums
- Provide peer support for dads
The support is led by a Dad Matters Coordinator and volunteers known as “Dad Champions”.
You can find out more here: Visit Dad Matters
How to get support
Getting started is easy:
- You can make a referral or contact us directly
- Or ask your GP or Health Visitor to refer you
- We’ll arrange a visit to talk about what support would help
Our service is confidential and we only support families who want our help.
📞 01453 297470 – Home‑visiting support 📞 01453 821085 – Home-Start Groups
Next: Make a Referral