| What does a Volunteer do?
Usually you visit a family in their own home once a week for a couple of hours. How you help is really down to the family itself. Some might need someone to talk to... others may need more practical support with meal planning and cooking, reading to the children, going to the local park or to medical appointments or finding out about local services, for example, toddler groups, nurseries, libraries or other events.
What qualifications do I need to become a Volunteer?
The only "qualification" you need is experience of bringing up children. Friendliness and a caring attitude are essential as well as an understanding of the pressures of parenting. We value people who don't judge others, people who will respect the fact that they have been invited into a family's home, people who will treat a mother or father as an equal.
What about training?
You will attend our free Volunteer Preparation Course with other new volunteers. Typically this is an eight week course, 4 hours a session, held in term time covering many topics including positive parenting, child development, supporting parents and safeguarding.
Once you have completed your training and have been matched with a family you will continue to receive support from the Home-Start Organisers. You may also be offered additional training on relevant topics such as Mental Health Awareness, Post-Natal Depression, First Aid for babies and children and Counselling.
Will I be paid?
Expenses are paid during training and while you support a family. You should be able to commit at least one year of your time to Home-Start. You will have to undergo a Criminal Record Check at enhanced level.
What would I get out of being a Home-Start Volunteer?
The knowledge that you have helped a family at a difficult time in the early years of a child's life, be it because of the illness or disability of the child or because of post natal illness, bereavement or loneliness. An extremely positive and worthwhile experience, which can be a boost to your own self-esteem and confidence. Volunteering can even be the first step on the ladder towards a job or returning to work.
Can I Help without Visiting Families?
Yes. We also need volunteers to help with administration in the office, assist at the family group in Pirbright and to raise funds. In addition we would be interested to hear from anyone with relevant experience, interested in becoming a volunteer trustee and joining the management committee. Please contact the office for more details.
What Next?
If you are interested in becoming a volunteer the next step is to telephone or email the office for an application form.
Email: office@hsguildford.org.uk Tel: 01483 511181
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