I HAVE two teenage sons and know first-hand just how demanding it can be looking after children. That's why I am appealing to your readers to support Home-Start - the charity that so effectively supports families in local communities up and down the country.

Home-Start is a charity where parents help other parents - it's a simple idea that really works and volunteers offer both emotional and practical support. It is because volunteers are parents themselves and choose to give their time to help others, unpaid, that the relationship they offer families is so special. I am Patron of Home-Start Caerphilly, and know exactly how much good they do.

So how can you support Home-Start? It's couldn't be simpler. From May 1-31 Home-Start is running its national fundraising campaign - the Big Tea Party. You could join people all over the UK who will be holding a tea party for friends, family or colleagues. Home-Start has fundraising packs full of ideas on how to take part.

Home-Start believes that thriving communities are based on strong families with happy, healthy, confident children. You could make a difference to a child's life - and your own community - today. Register for your Big Tea Party organisers' pack at http://www.home-start.orq.uk/bigteaparty or call 0800 068 63 68.

JOE CALZAGHE, BBC Sports Personality of the Year.