What we do and why

When families come to The Family Haven, they often feel scared, isolated, and vulnerable. Many have been forced to make difficult choices to ensure the safety and well-being of their children. They may be living in temporary accommodation, struggling on a low income, or have no recourse to public funds.

We support families in gaining financial resilience through practical assistance and education. This includes budgeting, menu planning, and healthy eating sessions where families can take home food for evening meals. We connect them with specialist organisations like debt counselors and National Energy Action and assist with paperwork and fuel provider negotiations. Our information sessions and guest speakers ensure families understand their rights and available support. Additionally, we apply for grants to provide essential furniture and white goods, refer to food banks when needed, and offer a crèche to help parents attend meetings. Through English classes and training opportunities, we also help develop skills that improve long-term prospects.

Financial hardship causes immense stress and worry for the families who attend, but with the right support, they can achieve a brighter future. At The Family Haven, we help families by giving them the tools to move toward greater stability, where they no longer have to choose between food and fuel, With your support, we can make this possible.

For just £1.50 a day, families with pre-school-aged children can access the centre and nursery, enjoy a healthy breakfast, snacks, and drinks, attend parenting and personal development classes, receive advice and signposting, take part in healthy eating sessions, and hear from guest speakers who provide guidance on fuel poverty, debt management, and mental health support. For an additional £1.50 per adult and 50p per child, families can also enjoy a home-cooked, nutritious meal, a lifeline for those who are really struggling.

Where we are

The Family Haven is situated in an area of Gloucester that, according to the Index of Multiple Deprivation, ranks within the top 15% most deprived areas in the country. We have seen a significant increase in families needing our help and now have a growing waiting list. Despite this rising demand, we do not receive government funding, except for some families who claim vulnerable 2-year nursery vouchers.

With more families struggling, we are providing an increasing number of food parcels and vouchers, and more parents are turning to our donation room for essential clothing and shoes.

Each year, we support between 40 and 60 families, including 118 children and 90 adults. We also provide 8,000 nutritious meals a year, ensuring families have access to the food they need. As the only day centre in Gloucester offering a whole-family approach under one roof, we provide a vital lifeline. Many of our families are referred by social services, health visitors, and other agencies.

Our  team of 11 staff—including 7 nursery staff and 5 client services and admin staff work to provide individually tailored support to every family who walks through our doors.

With additional funding, The Family Haven could deliver more advice and information sessions, expand nursery care so parents can access the support they need, and continue providing thousands of nutritious meals each year.

With your help, we can give families the chance to build a brighter future.