As the Summer rolls into Autumn, it can mean only one thing! Home-Start are recruiting again. After the quiet Summer months, referrals pick up in September and we are back on the hunt for some fabulous volunteers to join our Home-Start family. This year, we have spent some time reflecting on the kind of qualities our best volunteers have. Those volunteers that help families to really improve their situations not only in the short term but empowering them to continue to make sustained changes throughout their family’s life.
We noticed that these ‘Supervols’ have some key qualities. Firstly, they are organised. They manage their own time effectively, making them reliable, building the families trust. They use these organisation skills with their families, showing them how life can be easier when routines are in place. The second quality that they all share is that they are calm. They aren’t fazed by the complexities of their families or by challenging situations. They quietly take difficulties in their stride, demonstrating to families what real resilience looks like. Finally, they are caring and they genuinely want the best for the families. They don’t sympathise (‘oh poor you!’) but instead they emphasise (‘that sounds tough’). They don’t judge the families choices but accept them and try to make life a little better.They often go above and beyond to make this happen.
In conversation with a Supervol, I asked what she would say to someone who was thinking about volunteering. She said, “Do it! You are not just helping the families, you are helping yourself. I get a buzz knowing I have made their day better. Sometimes the fact they’ve opened the door and let you in is an achievement. I feel very priviledged and humbled they let me help.
Do you think you could be a Supervol? Do you have a friend you think would be the perfect Supervol? Get in touch on 01635 760310 or email office@home-startwb.org.uk and join us for our next preparation course on 23rd September 2019.