Request Support
All our services are based around the principle that we offer no judgement, just compassionate, confidential, helpful support.
Please complete the relevant form below to request support. If you have any questions and would like to talk to someone about our support or discuss referrals, then please call us on 01245 847410 or email info@home-startessex.org.uk
Referral Criteria
Before you either complete a self-referral or refer a family you are working with, please check they meet our Referral Criteria as listed below:
- Family must have at least one child pre-birth up to the child’s 5th birthday
- Live in the areas we support – Mid, South & West Essex
For Professional Referrals – extra information on criteria
- Home-Start Essex can not provide support for Level 4 families & your referral will not be accepted.
- Children are at Early Help Level or below (if they are not please speak to us first, before completing the form)
- You need to have discussed this referral with the family prior to completing the form & they have agreed to this referral
- The family have given consent for you to share the information in the form with Home-Start Essex
If you referral meets the above criteria, then please complete the relevant form by clicking the button below.
Requesting Support
Self Referral
If you are a parent/carer and would like to access our services please refer yourself for support by completing the form below.
Self ReferralProfessional Referral
If you are a professional working with a family who you feel need our support then please complete our online referral form here.
If you are an ECFWS Professional (member of staff) then please submit your referral via System One – if you have any questions regarding this, then please speak to your line manager.
Professional ReferralWhat happens next?
Once we receive your request, one of our local Family Support Co‑ordinators will contact you or the family you’ve referred to talk through the support needed. They will then arrange an initial visit or phone call. During this first conversation, they will explain which of our services are available and the best fit for the family.
If we are unable to offer support straight away because the local team is at full capacity, the family will be added to our waiting list for up to 12 weeks. This list is managed by our Area Lead Co‑ordinators.
If a space becomes available within the 12‑week period, we will contact the family to arrange the initial assessment. If we still cannot offer support after 12 weeks, we will let the family—and the referrer, if applicable—know.
I feel so relaxed after I’ve spoken with my volunteer. I really do feel more confident in my ability as a parent.’
‘My volunteer was very hands on with the children. Her advice was really helpful.’
‘My volunteer helped me get out of the house to baby group.’
Thank you for all you're doing, not sure what I'd do without you.
Home-Start Parent
You have made all my worries so much less with all your help, thanks to you we will have a Christmas and I was so worried we wouldn’t be able to this year. Thank you so much.
Home-Start Parent
"With the support of a Home-Start volunteer, I learnt how to interact and play with my son, put boundaries in place and create a safe and secure home."
Home-Start Parent
