A FAMILY support charity, which operates in Tavistock, has been saved from closure after being given a major financial boost.

Home-Start South Hams, Plymouth and Tavistock, which offers one-to-one befriending and mentoring support to families who are struggling, was facing closure at the end of this year, despite a steady increase in referrals, but has been saved for the next three years thanks to a £370,000 grant from the Big Lottery Reaching Community Fund.

Home-Start manager Andrea Chandler said: 'Not only are we now able to guarantee our service for the next three years but the £370,000 grant means that we can expand our service to meet the demand.'

With the money, the charity plans to extend its reach to take in Okehampton.

One mother who received support when suffering with depression after the birth of her second child, said the charity got her back on her feet again: 'I felt very alone when my mental health support worker suggested Home-Start. I was given a lovely lady and I was gob-smacked that there were real people who just wanted to help me.

'I called her my "Mary Poppins" as she was so amazing. She was my rock and as a result I grew stronger and found my feet.'

The charity is now facing the challenge of finding more hands-on support. Co-ordinator Zoe Bell said: 'We are always looking for people with parenting experience who have a couple of hours a week to spare and now that we know we have a future we are very keen to hear from anyone who is interested in helping us.'

To find out more about the charity or how you can help, email [email protected]">[email protected]