Generous businesses have come together to fund the production of a new video for a charity which helps families in Poole, Bournemouth, Christchurch, Purbeck, South and East Dorset.

Home-Start South East Dorset was keen to produce a video to demonstrate the transformative impact of its work with local families, particularly in the charity’s 25^th anniversary year.

But finding the funding for it seemed like an impossible task.

Like many charities, Home-Start South East Dorset has been hit with a double-whammy from Covid-19.

Its services have been more in demand than ever, as coronavirus has placed even greater strain on families who are already isolated, facing financial hardship, disability and mental health challenges.

Yet its fundraising efforts have been drastically curbed by the inability to hold physical fundraising events at scale.

Caroline Pope, Community & Corporate Engagement Manager, said: “We really wanted to find a way to make this video and celebrate the hard work of our amazing volunteers.

“But every penny of our budget had gone into continuing to support families, right through lockdown.

“One kind donation from The Athena Network Dorset led to an idea for a crowdfunding campaign to raise the money we needed.

“I have been touched by the generosity of our sponsors – The Inspiration Agency, Parker Business Support, KW Engineering, BH Support, 4 C Marketing and The Athena Network Dorset who have collaborated with us to make this project happen.

“We couldn’t have done it without them.”

The video showcases the life-changing work that Home-Start does through its volunteer visits and wellness walks.

A local mum of twins, Abi, comments: “I don’t think I would be where I am today if it wasn’t for the help I have had from Home-Start.”

Georgina Ash, Video Producer and Founder of Grub Productions, pictured right,  said: “As a videographer, I get to meet and film interesting people from all walks of life.

“But working on this project has been a privilege.

“It has been humbling and rewarding to spend time capturing the amazing work that Home-Start volunteers do and the impact that it has on families right here in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole.

“Their work is life-changing, not just for the adults that the charity supports but the vulnerable children involved, whose childhood can’t wait.”

It costs Home-Start South East Dorset approximately £33.25 per week to support a family with specialist one-to-one volunteer support.

To make a donation to Home-Start, or to find out more about accessing their help, please click here.