HOME-START Herefordshire is calling for male and female home-visiting volunteers in Hereford.

There are many fragile city centre families in desperate need of a little extra help and support.

In many cases the help is especially needed for supporting families with top age primary and early high school age children. At this time we are particularly seeking volunteers who can relate to families with this age group.

Marketing and recruitment co-ordinator Alison Jones said "There has always been the misconception that our volunteers are all retired and female, but that’s very much not the case. We have male and female volunteers, the current youngest being 26 and the eldest 76. The amount of families in need of our service is growing fast in the county, so there is a constant need to recruit new volunteers."

Home-Start Herefordshire helps and supports families that have children aged 0-19 who are experiencing difficulties and need an extra helping hand and reassurance.

"Are you a parent or grandparent willing to offer two or three hours a week to give help and support to other parents finding life hard through no fault of their own. Your experience as a parent could make the difference to a family that is struggling to cope."

While offering help to families our volunteers find they get a tremendous sense of satisfaction and enjoy the time they spend together, often making real lasting friendships.

Another seven new volunteers have completed the Volunteers Preparation course run by Home-Start Herefordshire. They are now eager to help and support families in the county, joining the team of dedicated volunteers at Home-Start Herefordshire.

If you would like to know more about how you become a volunteer, or help us with our fundraising or events please do give us a call on 01432 371212, email

homestart.hereford@virgin.net or visit www.home-startherefordshire.co.uk. We can’t wait to hear from you!