HRH The Countess of Wessex
Sophie visits Winchester
25th April 2007
Her Royal Highness Sophie, Countess of Wessex visited Home-Start Winchester to meet staff, volunteers, parents and children just eighteen months after the scheme had been formally opened.
Her visit helped highlight the constant need for new volunteers, the ongoing need for funding, and the launch of a new drop in centre for families from the area.
She learned about the 36 volunteers already trained and the 46 families being supported or already 'signed off'.
Home-Start Winchester patron Sally Stewart said, "The visit means a lot to the volunteers, especially as they put in a lot of their own time."
In a thank you letter the Countess's Equerry said, "It was a wonderful afternoon and the atmosphere was the best witness to the success of the work that is being done. The children were all deeply content, delightful and full of happiness."
Pictured above: HRH Sophie Countess of Wessex hugs Emma (left) and Charlotte Noonan after they presented her with flowers and a gardening kit for her daughter, The Lady Louise Windsor.
I became a Trustee of Home-Start in 2000 simply because I so wished I had had the support of a volunteer during those very terrible times in my life....although I came through it all, I could have easily tipped over the edge. I don't want anyone else in my position to have to cope on their own.
Lindsay Nicholson
Former Editor, Good Housekeeping Magazine
