Avenue Saint Andrew's United Reformed Church, Southampton

The church is surrounded by disadvantaged housing, with a substantial number of families living in temporary accommodation. Parents and children often have to survive in very cramped conditions, some suffering from the effects of domestic abuse, loneliness, and fragmented relationships.

The local health visitors are able to refer them to a specialist project, which has been running in the church for twenty years.

The centre is chaired by the minister, the Revd Cliff Bembridge , and is funded by the local Primary Care Trust, social services and Sure Start, with the balance provided by national charities and the church community.

The scheme currently employs five qualified play workers and a specialist family worker who offers support and advice and gathers the parents together in a self-help group, whilst the children are occupied.

Apart from the well-equipped play centre, practical provision also includes laundry facilities, internet access, and IT skills training offering a possible route into employment.