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Volunteer Development Scotland Ltd. (also known as Volunteer Scotland).
Charity registered in Scotland SC013740 and a company limited by guarantee, registered in Scotland, No. SC106743. Our registered Office is Jubilee House, Forthside Way, Stirling. FK8 1QZ

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Home Visiting Volunteer

Home-Start Dunfermline volunteers are at the heart of everything they do. They provide personalised one-to-one support to families with young children, offering friendship, emotional support and practical help in the family home. Their trained volunteers visit weekly, helping parents who may be experiencing challenges such as postnatal illness, loneliness, mental health difficulties, relationship problems, disability, poverty, or coping with multiple births and young children. By listening without judgement and encouraging parents’ strengths, volunteers help families build confidence, develop new skills and feel less isolated. Support may include helping families access local services, get out and about, or simply providing a listening ear during difficult times. Just a couple of hours a week can make a lasting difference to a family’s wellbeing and future.

Experience required

A Home-Start volunteer should be caring, reliable and non-judgemental, with good communication and listening skills. They look for people who are warm, approachable and able to respect confidentiality while supporting families from all backgrounds. Volunteers should have a positive attitude, empathy, patience and an understanding of the challenges families may face. Experience of parenting or caring can be helpful, but no formal qualifications are needed, as full training and ongoing support are provided. Most importantly, volunteers should have the time, enthusiasm and commitment to support families and help build their confidence and wellbeing.

Travel details

They support families in the Dunfermline and South West Fife area by Home-Visiting and Group work.

Travel expenses

45p per mile, plus expenses incurred

Support
Training details

Volunteers are asked to complete a Preparation Course, which normally takes place once a week for 2/3 hours a day for 4 weeks, backed up with some additional on-line training. Once matched with a family, volunteers have 1:1 support sessions with their named co-ordinator every 6 weeks. There are also opportunities for group/peer support with other volunteers, and ongoing training and development.

Restrictions

Minimum age: 16

Availability
Mon
Tue
Wed
Thu
Fri
Sat
Sun
Morning
Afternoon
Evening

Volunteers (aged 16-25) taking part in this opportunity are eligible to claim Saltire Awards hours for their activity.
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