Thoughts of a Volunteer

By being there to play with a sick child, has given Mum much needed time to get on with things.  I have had the privilege of a wonderful relationship with the child and  I have made a great friend in Mum too; in fact I sometimes forget that I am a volunteer!

Home-Start is such a brilliant scheme.  It’s so simple, but it is exactly what’s needed, and that’s why it works so well.

It’s a wonderful feeling, and a pleasure, to watch families move forward to a point where they no longer need support.

My time as a Volunteer has been both challenging and rewarding.

I have worked for several charities over the years but Home-Start Runnymede is easily the most fulfilling and appreciative voluntary organisation of them all.

I feel that Home-Start has equipped me for ‘Grandparenthood’ and I was very sad to give up when we moved away.

I feel privileged to be a Home-Start volunteer and have immensely enjoyed working with “my” families, each one being unique and with very different needs.

There is, of course, great sadness when the time comes to leave a family, but also a feeling of satisfaction, knowing you have played a small part in helping them through difficult times.

I know with my help mum can enjoy two hours off – precious time just for herself.

I continually learn from the ongoing training and support sessions for the volunteers where we share ideas and experiences.