Shropshire charity appeals for new volunteers to support young families
A charity that supports families with children aged under five is appealing for volunteers to join the team and help transform the lives of young children and their parents in the Telford & Wrekin area.
Home-Start Telford & Wrekin aims to give children under five the best possible start by helping parents manage daily life and widen links within their community through home visits and support from a team of volunteers.
Caia Bryant-Griffiths, strategic lead for Home-Start Telford and Wrekin, said Home-Start’s volunteers offered regular support, friendship, and practical help to young families in their own homes helping to prevent family crisis or breakdown.
“Home-Start has become even more crucial in these difficult times as referrals have increased. Parents face various issues, from isolation and loneliness to mental health concerns, financial worries, disabilities, and bereavement.
“Supporting Home-Start means supporting these parents and making a real difference in their lives. If you have some spare time and kindness to share, we would be delighted to welcome you as a volunteer for Home-Start Telford and Wrekin. Your impact on a child's life could last a lifetime,” she said.
Vikki Thomas, operational lead for Home-Start Telford & Wrekin said volunteers had a crucial role in offering support, friendship, advice and practical help to families under pressure.
“Volunteering is a rewarding way to help families in our community. We welcome all volunteers, regardless of background or parenting status. Being a parent can be tough, and we're here to support families through the challenges. We're always looking for more amazing volunteers to join us in this mission of making a difference.”
Volunteers visit families in their own homes as well as taking part in support groups and encouraging families to widen their network of relationships.
New volunteers are given an initial course of preparation, lasting four to five hours per session once a week, for approximately six weeks. They then work under with the charity’s co-ordinators to visit a family for around two to three hours a week according to the family’s needs and volunteer’s availability.
The next preparation course is due to start on April 11. Further information is available by emailing info@homestarttandw.org.uk or phoning 01952 872280 or on the website at www.homestarttelfordandwrekin .co.uk
The charity also receives extensive support from within the community. Wellington ladies-only gym, Gymophobics is currently collecting Easter eggs for Home-Start to be distributed to families. Eggs can be dropped off at the gym in Market Street up to March 22. Further information is available on the Gymophobics Facebook page.
