Charity’s new leadership structure to boost community support

challenges more effectively and seize opportunities for growth, all while maintaining a focus on its core mission.

drive the organisation forward.

Home-Start Watford and Three Rivers is introducing and as

Foster bringing a collaborative approach to leadership that leverages their combined expertise and vision.

Michaela, Director of Services, said: “Our new leadership structure reflects our commitment to adaptability and innovation in how we serve our community. By co-leading, Karen and I can focus on different aspects of our mission, ensuring that we remain responsive to the needs of the families we support.”

The co-leadership model is part of a broader strategy to enhance service delivery, improve operational efficiency and strengthen community partnerships. It allows the organisation to address

Karen, Director of Operations, added: “The current climate is incredibly challenging for charities, with significant pressures in the funding landscape that make it difficult to sustain vital services. It’s important more than ever to have a leadership structure that is both dynamic and resilient and allows for the sharing of responsibility.

“Working together, we can better safeguard the sustainability of our charity, ensuring that we can continue to serve our community.”

The charity recently hosted a vibrant festival-style event at Holywell Community Centre, Watford, that brought together over 120 people for a day full of activities for children and support for parents.

Sponsored by Warner Bros. and Asda, the event’s activities included soft play, glitter tattoos, ice-cream and a petting zoo, supported by Home-Start volunteers and corporate volunteers from Mothercare Global Brand and Berkeley Homes.

Local businesses, including Everyone Active, Beezee Bodies, Noisemakers, Furry and Scaly Friends and the Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service from Watford Fire Station, were on hand to interact with families.

A Home-Start family said: “Being able to watch my children play and have a smile on their face and being able to run around, even talking to other parents and just getting out of the house has been truly amazing... thank you so much.

The event was attended by the elected Mayor of Watford, Peter Taylor, who said: “Witnessing the joy and support provided to those in need reminded me just how vital organisations like Home-Start are to our community. I was really grateful for the opportunity to be part of such a positive event and am grateful to the team at Home-Start for the fantastic work that they do.”