Home-Start Kirklees, a charity which provides confidential help and support to families, has opened new premises at Bates Mill in Huddersfield.
Staff and volunteers were joined by the Mayor of Kirklees Clr Masood Ahmed and Huddersfield MP Barry Sheerman as they celebrated the occasion with a specially-made cake.
Demand for the charity’s services meant it had outgrown its previous premises in Dalton. The new office provides a modern environment for the workforce, a safe space for parents to access support and facilities to provide ongoing training.
Kerri Flanagan, director of Home-Start Kirklees, said: “It’s been a journey researching premises which would potentially meet our growing needs, and I am delighted we have officially moved into our new home and are able to welcome everyone.
“We are fortunate to have an excellent team of staff and volunteers. Our staff have been flexible and positive minded throughout the whole process.
“Our wonderful volunteers have kind hearts, compassion and goodwill in abundance and continue to put hours into supporting families to feel better able to cope.”
The Mayor said: “It’s fantastic news for the charity to move into its new building and continue their work in all of our communities supporting families with young children who are experiencing difficulties.
“The team of volunteers has grown at the charity, and it is testament to not just the people here but also as a borough that we have individuals who offer their time to lend an ear and reassure people when they are faced with difficult challenges.
“I know the charity has helped thousands of families and children in Kirklees and I am sure they will continue to do this for many more years.”
Mr Sheerman said: “Home-Start Kirklees is a really valuable charity which does vital work for the local community. As more and more people find themselves struggling, Home-Start will no doubt be approached by more families seeking its support.
“Their new premises will allow them to keep delivering top quality assistance to those who need it most.”
Last year, Home-Start Kirklees helped 230 families. The local charity gives compassionate bespoke help to families on a wide range of issues including bereavement, postnatal depression, isolation, coping with multiple births, domestic abuse, loneliness, financial worries or helping out with a parent or child with disabilities.
