All parents know that those early years before children go off to school are vital in a child's life and Home-Start is a charity that believes that parents have the key role in creating a secure childhood for their children. It's just sometimes they need a bit of help.

Last year Home-Start supported 176 Herefordshire families. This would not have been possible without the help of home-visiting volunteers, who visit parents at home, giving emotional and practical help. All have parenting experience and, before they are matched with a family, go through a preparation course and have an enhanced criminal records check.

The charity urgently needs more home-visiting volunteers throughout Herefordshire so that they can offer support to more families in this area. Volunteers give two or three hours a week to visit a family and offer:

Precious time for listening and talking

Help with the children

A break for parents

Practical help and reassurance

A chance to meet other parents in the same boat

Support to use local services and resources.

In return volunteers find that they have fun, feel rewarded and honoured that they are allowed into the life of a family. Volunteers are given excellent ongoing training and support, a chance to join in with our social events and of course, all out of pocket expenses are paid.

Volunteers agree that 'it's wonderful to see a family changing and know that you have helped and been a part of that', 'it's sometimes difficult to see who benefits most – myself or the family!' and 'I'm a rent-a-granny and I love it!'

With the help of volunteers the families grow confidence to give their children the best start in life. One family told us:?"With Home-start's help I got through a terrible time, and now my house is full of hope and laughter".

There are many opportunities for volunteering with Home-Start Herefordshire apart from working directly with families, they need help at events, trustees to steer and guide the charity and assistance with fundraising activities.

If you would like to find out more about Home-Start or would like to make a donation telephone 01432 371212 (weekdays between between 9am – 2pm).