Volunteers in Richmond have been praised in a national report for their dedication to helping children and families.

Helpers at family support charity Home Start, which has a branch in Sheen Lane, were cited in a review of child protection in which Professor Eileen Munro said local areas should have more freedom to design their own services.

She said: “Organisations such as Home Start UK … demonstrate the value of volunteers in communicating models of good parenting… specific attention is devoted to those children with complex needs and the support is shaped to reflect the needs of children and families.”

Prof Munro’s report addressed child protection issues, an issue of national and local concern in recent years.

Staff and volunteers at Home Start Richmond were delighted to have their work endorsed in the national study.

Martina Philips, Home Start Richmond’s scheme manager, said she welcomed the report and Munro’s championing of preventative services and early intervention for families.

She said: “I am delighted to read how the Munro Report recognises the value of Home Start’s approach and our volunteer support for parents.

“In the past year Home Start volunteers in the borough of Richmond supported 225 families with more than 400 children.”

The Richmond branch of the charity has been offering support to families and children going through a tough time since 1995.

For more details call 020 8487 8500, email info@homestart-richmond.org.uk or visit homestart-richmond.org.uk.