Volunteers
Home-Start volunteers must be parents themselves, or have parenting experience.
Potential volunteers undertake a short course of preparation prior to beginning work with a family.
They are also required to undergo a CRB check.
They will have the ongoing support of the scheme's coordinators and meet regularly in small groups for mutual support.
Would you like to become a Home-Start Volunteer?
What being a Home-Start Volunteer means
Home-Start volunteers' work is complementary to professional workers. They need to be good listeners, be reliable and able to respect the confidentiality of the family they are visiting.
Bearing in mind that the needs of the child(ren) are paramount, the Home-Start volunteer must also focus on the parent and will require the qualities of friendliness, enthusiasm, optimism and flexibility. An individual approach is the keynote of Home-Start visiting.
Sometimes mothers can be encouraged to spend as much time as possible with their children; at other times they will be helped by their Home-Start volunteer to have some relief from the demanding task of caring for their children.
Home-Start visiting can be a very rewarding experience for volunteers. Out-of-pocket expenses are reimbursed by Home-Start.
Volunteers' testimonies
"I have been a volunteer of Home-Start for just over a year now, and love every minute of it. I visit my family for a couple of hours once a week. Each visit can be very different. Some weeks are spent chatting about everyday things and playing with the children, other weeks are spent talking about specific issues that are causing problems for my family."
"I really enjoy this time and I feel that it definitely makes a big difference to the family, as they look forward to my visits. It's not about trying to solve all their problems but about empowering them to make changes, being a friend and listening."
What do I need to become a volunteer?
All Home-Start volunteers are parents themselves, or have parenting experience. You will also need to be honest, helpful, reliable, able to keep confidences and having a good sense of humour and fun really helps. You don't need any special training or skills, just an understanding of what it is like to be a parent.
Legacy – Anne Brandt
I'm going your way.
Let me help you along.
You seem to be tired.
And my arms are strong.
Let me carry your load.
I'm up to the test.
I'll shoulder your burden.
And give you a rest.
I was once troubled.
With problems and grief.
'Til a friend held me closely.
And offered relief.
And all that friend asked.
Before he was gone.
Was when I felt better.
I pass his help on..
How to apply
If you would like to become a volunteer, or would like more information please contact us on the number above, or drop us an e-mail. We would love to talk to you.