Why it matters: Home-Start Suffolk has created waiting lists in some areas as demand grows, with families needing immediate support rather than waiting weeks for help.
The charity provides practical and emotional support to families with at least one child under 12 across Suffolk through weekly visits, calls and group sessions. Each family receives a bespoke support package matched with a suitable volunteer.
What they're saying: "The need is really increasing," said Tara Spence, chief executive officer at Home-Start Suffolk. "We pride ourselves on offering vital early intervention before a family reaches crisis. If we do not have volunteers, we are not able to provide support when families need it."
She added: "If a family needs our support, they don't need it in eight weeks' time – they need it now. Therefore, we need more volunteers now."
The big picture: Home-Start Suffolk operates with 280 volunteers but needs more to meet growing demand. In 2021, volunteers received the Queen's Award for Voluntary Service – the equivalent of an MBE for volunteering.
Volunteers support families facing diverse challenges, including social isolation, poverty, illness, mental health issues, bereavement, family breakdowns and domestic abuse.
Esther, a Home-Start Suffolk volunteer whose son was diagnosed with autism, explained her motivation: "As a parent, this was a lonely and challenging time. A volunteer to talk to would have been invaluable. If I can help a family take a step in a more positive direction, then my time volunteering has been worthwhile."
What's on offer: The charity provides high-quality training available during evenings or daytime, plus ongoing support. Volunteers come from diverse backgrounds and are carefully matched with families.
Charlotte, a supported parent, praised her volunteer: "She made me see I was always doing the best by my children and showed me how great of a mum I am. She was kind and so easy to talk to. She gave me guidance on anything I asked."
The bottom line: Home-Start Suffolk offers flexible volunteering opportunities for anyone able to spare a few hours a week, with the charity emphasising that early intervention prevents families from reaching crisis point.
To volunteer, call 01473 621104 or email volunteer@homestartinsuffolk.org.
