THE DEMAND for family support in West Devon has prompted a recruitment drive by Home Start for more volunteers. The national charity, which has been working in the borough for 13 years, helps families with young children who are going through a crisis by visiting them at home and providing friendship and support. Volunteers also run special family groups and hold social events. Senior organiser for West Devon Aileen Bedford- Strandling said that 18 months ago the Home Start base in West Devon moved from Okehampton to Tavistock and during that time it had been very successful in placing volunteers with families. In the last 12 months Home Start West Devon has helped more than 50 families and 200 children. 'We now have a waiting list of people who want to use Home Start,' said Mrs Bedford-Strandling. 'We cover an area of 500 square miles but only have 16 volunteers at the moment and we need at least another 20.' Home Start works hand in hand with children's centres and people can refer themselves for help or be referred by their health visitor or GP. The only condition is that they have one child under five. Mrs Bedford-Strandling said there were numerous reasons why families might need support, for example, because of post-natal depression, multiple birth, one parent being away in the forces or debt. Volunteers usually visit a family in their own home once a week for a couple of hours. Some might need someone to talk to while others might need practical support such as help with meal planning and cooking or reading to the children. The only real qualification to be a volunteer is experience of bringing up children. Friendliness and a caring attitude are essential as well as an understanding of the pressures of parenting: 'Volunteers can help by offering non- judgemental friendship and support,' added the senior organiser. 'If they have a problem with lack of confidence and joining things with their little ones, volunteers can go with them and also link them up with other services.' Home Start is looking for volunteers who can start training in September for ten consecutive half-days. Anyone who is interested can visit the office at 3b Paddons Row, Tavistock or contact 01822 614232.
