Home-Start Angus volunteers offer a regular home-visiting service to young families who are experiencing difficulties or feel they are not coping. During the home visits they offer support, friendship and practical help. In offering support Home-Start volunteers are alongside families doing things “with” and not “to” them. All of us in Home-Start recognise that bringing up young children is not easy and a little reassurance and praise can go a long way! This role requires a high level of commitment and reliability and will be supported by the Home-Start Angus Co-ordinators. Home-Start volunteers are expected to work towards the increased confidence and independence of the family by: • Offering support, friendship and practical help • Visiting the families in their own homes, where the dignity and identity of each individual can be respected and protected • Reassuring families that difficulties in bringing up children are not unusual • Emphasising the positive aspects of family life • Developing a relationship with the family in which time can be shared and an understanding developed • Encouraging parents' strengths and emotional well-being for the ultimate benefit of their own children • Encouraging families to widen their network of relationships and to use effectively the support and services available in the community This roles requires the following commitment: • Initial Course of Preparation, normally lasting 24 hours over a number of weeks • Minimum of 2 - 3 hours per week according to the family's needs • Regular support and supervision • Ideally a commitment of 12 months or more This is exciting and rewarding voluntary work which requires energy, commitment, reliability, creativity and a sense of humour. All volunteers can expect the support of the Co-ordinators, other volunteers and the Board of Trustees, and, through the Co-ordinator, other professionals involved with the family. The Board of Trustee’s membership includes 2 representative volunteers. There are also opportunities for self development and social contact with others in Home-Start.