A brief introduction to the 16 quality standards that all Home-Start schemes work to. So no matter where in the country a family lives they know they will get the same quality of care.

1. Governance
Home-Start governs itself effectively and responsibly ensuring that its legal and financial obligations are met. Trustees work in partnership with staff and volunteers to support families and to give children the best start in life. Roles and responsibilities are clearly defined and Trustees have the necessary qualities, skills and knowledge.

2. Planning for quality
Home-Start's stated mission and broad aims are clear and express Home-Start's purpose and core business. Plans are based on the needs of families and on the Home-Start approach and ethos. Clear priorities and targets are set, reviewed and regularly updated.

3. Promoting children's welfare
The welfare and rights of children are central to all Home-Start support to families. Family needs for support are carefully assessed and activities with children are carried out in a safe, suitable and welcoming environment. All regulatory requirements are met.

4. Equal Opportunities and diversity
Home-Start is committed to the promotion and development of equal opportunities for all. Trustees, staff and volunteers recognise, respect and promote diversity. Steps are taken to ensure that Home-Start services, premises and procedures do not discriminate unfairly against people.
 

5. Confidentiality
Home-Start respects confidentiality principles in all aspects of its work. Relationships with families are built on the understanding that staff and volunteers work within clear confidentiality guidelines. Systems are in place to protect the confidentiality of families, volunteers and staff.

6. Managing Home-Start
Home-Start proactively publicises its mission and services to all. Managers carefully plan how to get things done and ensure effective communication. Information is recorded and used effectively. Systems are in place to manage the work of Home-Start and are regularly reviewed.

7. Managing staff
Home-Start recruits and supports the right people to achieve its mission. There are adequate numbers of staff to carry out the work of Home-Start. Staff have the appropriate skills, know to whom they are accountable and understand their role. All legal and regulatory requirements covering staff are met.

8. Managing volunteers
Home-Start works with its volunteers for the benefit of families and the volunteers themselves. Suitable volunteers are recruited, selected and appropriately matched according to their skills and experience. Volunteers understand their responsibilities, are valued and well supported, and legal obligations are met.

9. Learning and development
Home-Start proactively supports and develops its people to achieve its mission. Trustees, staff and volunteers receive a thorough induction. Ongoing learning and development opportunities are resourced, encouraged and monitored.

10. Quality and scheme development
Home-Start is committed to improving the quality of services to families and works within the terms of the Home-Start Agreement. Self-assessment is an integral part of the work of Home-Start and contributes to continuous improvement. Information and experiences are shared regionally and nationally and inform policy and practice.

11. Managing money and resources
Home-Start manages its money and resources effectively and prudently. Budgets are carefully monitored and Trustees ensure reliable financial controls are in place and are compliant with the law. Adequate funds are secured to ensure financial viability.

12. Health and safety
Home-Start makes the health and safety of its people and users a high priority by assessing risk and taking steps to maintain necessary safety measures. Staff and volunteers understand and follow safety policy and guidelines.

13. Monitoring and evaluation
Home-Start records its work efficiently and collects and analyses sufficient information to assess the benefit of its work with families. Collecting the views of families, volunteers and other agencies is an integral part of Home-Start's work. Monitoring and evaluation informs decision-making and is used to improve services.

14. Supporting families
Home-Start offers support to families within their home in a culturally sensitive way. Support is based on assessed need and respects the diverse range of family structures. Appropriately prepared and trained volunteers and staff work together with families to build their confidence and self esteem. Support outside the home is offered in response to expressed need.

15. Working with other agencies
Home-Start values its relationships with other agencies and works together with them to provide services to families in a co-ordinated way. It recognises that it is more effective through sharing information and working together. Referral procedures and practice ensure the best interests of the family are maintained.

16. Working in the wider context
Home-Start maintains a high profile and proactively publicises its support for families. Information and expertise is shared with other agencies and used to influence policy and service development locally, regionally and nationally. Home-Start proactively keeps up-to-date with changing government priorities and opportunities that may affect its work.