A Petersfield charity that supports families with young children could get extra presents in its Christmas stocking if people get into the festive spirit.

Donations to HomeStart Buster's Big Give Christmas Challenge between 12pm on December 3 and 12pm on December 10, will be match funded, and could mean an extra £30,000 for the charity. Even a £1 donation will make a big difference as it will be doubled.

The campaign is the biggest fundraising challenge and goes towards supporting a large chunk of the charity’s £200,000 costs.

“We have been very successful and this is our eighth year,” said Nicola Winter, scheme manager.

“Last year we supported 262 families and 365 children, a 48 per cent increase. That's really an impressive uplift, because we've got a very strong team and around 80 volunteers.

“The challenge is raising funds and as the teams get bigger and we support more families, the cost increases.”

HomeStart Butser
Thirty-two per cent of families stepped down or moved off Childrens’ Services plans during their time with Home-Start Butser last year (HomeStart Butser) (HomeStart Butser)

HomeStart Butser supports families by being a listening ear or someone to talk to, providing adult company, helping and playing with children and more.

“One parent said: “Spending most of my time as a solo parent with my husband away with work and having three children, one with SEND is a lot to juggle, particularly with no other support network.

“Knowing that I have somebody that can support my child with what he needs without judgement and who I know I can rely on to be there brings such peace of mind. It allows me to give my other children some much needed time to explore their interests.”

Nicola added: “Incredible changes happen through this support and families describe our volunteers as their lifeline. They wouldn't know what to do without them, they are stars!”