HOME-Start is expanding in and around Crediton.

The charity is looking for local volunteers to support local families with young children.

Are you thinking about changing your career or are you already experienced in working with children and families and have some spare time?

If so, please contact Home-Start to find out how to get involved in its new, free training course.

As any new mum or dad will tell you - parenting can be tough! Home-Start, really makes a difference.?Sophie Cook, one of the charity’s volunteer co-ordinators, explains: “Our volunteers are parents who have all had parenting experience, plus training, and can support other families who may be struggling.?“There’s a huge list of things that people struggle with, like having twins, being in an area you don’t know, family break-downs, mental health and anything really that disrupts the normal functioning of a family.

“Under the new normal of COVID-19 families are feeling the strain. Many people don’t live near their families and even if they do, they may not see them as often as they would like and it means that they don’t have anyone to off-load to.

“Under current circumstances, volunteers contact families virtually either by telephone, text or video calls once-a-week, working alongside them, giving them the emotional support. We chat with them and discuss what areas they’re struggling with and provide them with a volunteer who might be able to help.

“Home-Start is amazing. It’s like having a friendly aunt to chat to once-a-week to see if you’re alright.?“The volunteers really enjoy it too. They get a lot out of helping other people and seeing how much the families benefit.”

If this sounds like something you would be interested in, the next Volunteer Preparation Course will be running virtually.

Please contact Claire Johnson at Home-Start on 07831484672 or email: [email protected] or visit the website for other ways to get involved: https://homestarteemd.org.uk/ .