Volunteers are normally parents themselves, who offer their time freely, although all out-of-pocket expenses are paid. After attending an initial course of preparation for one day a week over 6-8 weeks, volunteers are matched with a family to support them once a week for as long as necessary. All volunteers receive regular ongoing support and training. Volunteers are there to support parents and their child(ren) in ways which the family finds most useful, which may be different from, but complimentary to, professional approaches or priorities. Visiting will continue for as long as the family feels it appropriate which could be a few months or even a year or more.

Home-Start Volunteers may offer:

• A listening ear
• Help with the children
• A break for the parents
• Practical help
• Reassurance
• An opportunity to meet other parents

Volunteers may encourage families to:

• Make effective use of local resources
• Keep appointments
• Renew links with family and friends