Any family can face difficult times or unexpected challenges. Most parents have the help and support they need from friends and family but for those who don't life can be so very hard. Home-Start staff and volunteers offer regular practical help and emotional support to help parents when they need it most - because childhood can't wait. Supporting parents through difficult times gives them a much needed break, improves mental health, improves confidence and raises self-esteem, improves relationships between parents and their children, supports young children with their physical and emotional development and allows everyone to have fun together. Parents tell us that they feel more able to cope because of Home-Start support. "If it hadn't been for Home-Start support I would have lost all hope. Every time I think of them, I smile".