A local family support charity is appealing for new volunteers to participate in its first training course of 2016.
Home-Start Aberdeen currently has a waiting list of over thirty families, who are in desperate need of the charity’s unique blend of emotional and practical support. This support is delivered by its home visiting volunteers, who spend two to three hours per week with their allocated families in their own homes.
“Without our volunteers, Home-Start Aberdeen simply wouldn’t exist,” says Georgette Cobban, scheme manager, Home-Start Aberdeen. “The majority of our volunteers are parents themselves. They understand the challenges of family life and are well placed to support others who may be struggling to cope. This is why Home-Start’s service works so well.
“Each of our volunteers is carefully matched with a family and receives ongoing training, along with support and guidance from one of our small team of co-ordinators.
“Since our formation in 1987, Home-Start Aberdeen has grown to become one of Scotland’s largest Home-Start schemes. Those who join us have the opportunity to form new friendships, learn new skills and make a real difference to the lives of other local families.
“I would urge anyone who thinks they might be able to help to contact us for an informal chat.”
Places are still available on the charity’s first volunteer preparation course of 2016, which commences on Thursday, January 21. Home-Start Aberdeen also plans to run a further three volunteer preparation courses throughout the year to meet the growing demand for its service.
To find out more, telephone 01224 693545 or email volunteering@homestartaberdeen.org.uk.