Become a Volunteer
Make a real difference in the lives of local families
Why Volunteer With Us?
Our volunteers are the heart of Home-Start. They bring warmth, understanding, and practical support to families when they need it most.
As a Home-Start volunteer, you'll visit a family in their own home for a few hours each week. You might play with the children, have a cup of tea and a chat, help with practical tasks, or just provide a listening ear. What you do will depend on the family's needs—and your own skills and interests.
What We Look For
You don't need any formal qualifications to become a Home-Start volunteer. What matters most is your life experience and your willingness to help.
Parenting Experience
You should have experience of parenting or caring for children. This helps you understand what families are going through.
Non-Judgemental Attitude
Every family is different. We need volunteers who can accept families as they are, without judgement.
Good Listener
Sometimes families just need someone to talk to. Being a good listener is one of the most valuable skills you can bring.
Reliable & Committed
Families need to know they can count on you. We ask for a commitment of at least 2-3 hours per week for a minimum of one year.
Respectful of Confidentiality
Families share personal information with us. Keeping this confidential is essential to building trust.
Willing to Learn
We provide comprehensive training before you start. Being open to learning new skills and approaches is important.
Free Training & Support
We provide all our volunteers with comprehensive training and ongoing support.
Before you start visiting families, you'll complete our accredited volunteer preparation course. This typically runs over 40 hours (usually one day per week for several weeks) and covers:
- The Home-Start approach and values
- Understanding family challenges
- Child development and play
- Safeguarding children
- Communication and listening skills
- Boundaries and confidentiality
- Looking after yourself
Once you're matched with a family, you'll have regular supervision meetings with a coordinator who provides guidance and support throughout your volunteering journey.
What You'll Get
Volunteering with Home-Start is incredibly rewarding. Here's what our volunteers tell us they value:
Make a Difference
See the real impact you have on families' lives. Many volunteers say this is the most rewarding thing they've ever done.
New Skills
Gain valuable skills in communication, empathy, and supporting others—great for personal development or your CV.
Community Connection
Meet other volunteers and become part of a supportive community working together for local families.
Flexible Commitment
We work around your availability. Most volunteers give 2-3 hours per week at a time that suits them.
"Being a Home-Start volunteer has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. Seeing a family grow in confidence and knowing I played a small part in that is incredibly special. The training was excellent and I always feel supported."
Ready to Apply?
Fill out the form and we'll be in touch to discuss the next steps. The process typically involves:
- Initial conversation to learn more about you
- DBS (Access NI) check
- References from two people who know you well
- Volunteer preparation course
- Matching with a family
All information you provide is kept confidential and processed in accordance with data protection legislation.
Volunteer Application
Questions?
If you'd like to find out more before applying, we'd be happy to have an informal chat with you about what volunteering involves.