Volunteers Supporting Families was initially set up in response to the death of Victoria Climbie and the Lord Laming enquiry that followed. The project offers a pioneering approach, recruiting volunteers from the local community to provide support to families whose children are subject to a child protection or safeguarding plan, or have additional needs. We match trained volunteers with families where children are at risk of significant harm or neglect, or need additional help. Volunteers support the family at least once a week within the city of Edinburgh, at a time that suits everyone. The aim is to build a strong relationship based on trust and mutual respect, with volunteers acting as a positive role model who listens and offers practical or emotional help. So far, thousands of families across the UK have benefitted from our service. We have a proven track record of reducing the number of children on child protection plans and reducing the level of risk. The project delivers positive outcomes for families, enabling parents to overcome challenges, engage with universal services, access health checks and improve their children's school attendance. Please email james.donnelly@volunteeringmatters.org.uk or call 07823 413 260 to apply.