FAQ's
Q. I have days when I can’t cope well, but some days I’m ok. I’m not sure
my situation is bad enough to justify having a volunteer to help me. What
should I do?
A. Give us a call on 01704 233323 and have a chat with Annie or
Julie
Q. I’ve been referred to Home-Start by my Health Visitor. What happens next?
A. We will make arrangements with you for either Annie or Julie to visit you
to chat about what help you need and to see how the Home-Start service can
help you.
Q. I’m worried about having a stranger visit me to help me. What are the
volunteers like?
A. We try really hard to find the "right" volunteer for
you. They are all friendly and caring people, selected for their warmth and
understanding. We take up references and a Criminal Records Bureau Enhanced
Disclosure and they undertake a 10 week induction course – all to prepare
them for meeting and helping you!
Q. What if I change my mind?
A. That’s OK – just give us a ring and let us know.
Q. How long can I keep my volunteer?
A. For as long as you have a need and continue to meet our criteria
for referral. Your co-ordinator will visit regularly to review your progress.
Q. I think I’d like to be a volunteer for Home-Start; what
qualifications do I need?
A. You need to have parenting experience and a caring, understanding
attitude to young families who are experiencing difficulties.
Q. How do I apply to be a volunteer?
A. You can find more details
here. However, please give us a call on 01704 233323.
Q. What is the commitment for Home-Start volunteers?
A. You need to be able to offer to visit a family once or twice a
week for a couple of hours each time. The
initial training is a Preparation Course that runs once a
week for 10 weeks, and other optional training days are offered
periodically. You will also have regular contact with the Home-Start
co-ordinators
Q. I don’t fancy being a "home-visiting" volunteer, what else could I
do to help?
A. We need volunteers to help out on Thursday mornings at the
Family Group. We also need volunteers with business skills to join the
Trustee Board. Or, you could help us
financially! ! Have a look at the
About Us Get Involved page for more
ways to help us.