Hearing the two simple words “Thank You” can often make all the difference.

But do we say them enough? Especially to the people we care about the most.

One charity thinks that its time to make sure all the supporters, volunteers and staff who dedicate their time and money to supporting families knows just how important they are.

 Home-Start UK, is holding its first National Thank You Day, a day dedicated to recognising the incredible commitment of the volunteers and supporters who power the charity's work.

Taking place on Wednesday, 1st May 2025, Home-Start’s National Thank You Day is chance for the volunteer led charity to express gratitude to the people who make a difference in the lives of families across the country.

With almost 10,000 trained volunteers supporting more than 56,000 families each year, Home-Start’s work would not be possible without the generosity of its network of supporters. From volunteers visiting families weekly to donors, fundraisers, and community champions, this new day represents a chance to express one simple, powerful thing: thank you.

Volunteers like Helen Sharp, our volunteer of the year, who has dedicated her time to helping over 30 families, offering home visits that provide not only practical help but also emotional support during challenging times. Her efforts have brought comfort, consistency, and hope to those she has supported. Beyond her hands-on work, Helen has been a relentless advocate for Home-Start, playing a vital role in fundraising, raising awareness through local media, and engaging with MPs to secure continued support for vulnerable families.

Deb McCammon, Senior Coordinator at Home-Start North East Worcestershire, praised her as a “real-life Mary Poppins”, saying:

" Helen is a constant champion for our local Home Start, Families need a sense of safety in the community they are living in. Arriving each week at the same time and on the same day is the building block for this trust. Numerous families she has supported have benefitted from it over the years."

Interim Chief Executive of Home-Start UK, Vivien Waterfield said:

"Home-Start is built on the belief that real change begins in the home. That belief comes to life every day through our volunteers' passion and our supporters' commitment. It is important that we take time to thank all of those incredible people who make Home-Start’s work possible. National Thank You Day is our way of saying: we value you, and we couldn’t do this without you."

To mark the day, volunteers and supporters will receive special messages and tokens of appreciation from Home-Start, as well as recognition from local communities who have seen the impact of their support first-hand. Families supported by Home-Start are also encouraged to share their stories and messages of thanks.

Home-Start UK invites everyone to join in and celebrate the power of kindness, connection, and community.