UNDER-PRESSURE families could have some vital support withdrawn unless a Bournemouth charity can boost funds.

Grants to Home-Start South East Dorset have been slashed as statutory organisations struggle to balance books.

But demand for the service has gone up due to increased pressure on families in the economic downturn.

The charity, which has been running for 16 years, now needs to raise thousands of pounds every year to continue to help families in Bourne-mouth, Poole and Christ-church in desperate need.

Based in premises in Kinson, Home-Start has five employees and a network of 70 volunteers who visit families once a week for up to six months.

Families may be affected by a number of different things including disability, health problems, financial difficulties and household management.

Chair of Trustees Jenny Way said: “Volunteers work with families in their own homes as a preventative measure before they reach crisis point.

“They spend up to four hours with the families a week and we don’t want to reduce that.”

The service has been heaped with praise by users, volunteers and those who refer families.

Social worker Rosemary said: “I think the scheme benefits many families and we would be lost without it.”

Visitor Sarah added: “The volunteers empower clients to go forward at difficult times.”

Mum Jenny said: “Home-Start has been very supportive and non-judgemental and I’ve been able to see light at the end of the tunnel.”

And volunteer Debbie said: “I feel I was able to help this family in their time of need and am glad to be part of such a professional and effective support organisation.”

Jon and Joanne Dilling received help with their son, Harrison, who has cerebral palsy.

Jon said: “In the early years Harrison had a lot of problems and day to day living was difficult.

“We weren’t able to sleep and a volunteer helped us with things to make life easier.

“I don’t know what we would have done without them.”