How did Home-Start begin?
Home-Start was started in 1972 by Margaret Harrison, a health professional in Leicester, who recognised that there were many families who needed support but who would not qualify for statutory assistance. Local enthusiasts were recruited and the scheme began to operate. The idea spread rapidly and Home-Start schemes were established throughout the UK and beyond. A national Home-Start body was created to maintain standards, develop training programmes and ensure consistent policies. The scheme now operates throughout the world and outside the UK is overseen by Home-Start International.
