Frequently Asked Questions
Q. I have days when I can’t cope, but some days I’m OK. I’m not sure if
my situation is bad enough to justify having a volunteer to help me.
What should I do?
A. Give us a call on 01908 230030 and chat with one of the Home-Start
Milton Keynes co-ordinators.
Q. I’ve been referred to Home-Start Milton Keynes. What happens next?
A. We will make arrangements with you for one of the co-ordinators to
visit you to chat about what help you need and to see how the Home-Start
Milton Keynes service can help you.
Q. I’m worried about having a stranger visit me in my own home. What are
the volunteers like?
A. We try really hard to find the "right" volunteer for you. They are
all friendly and caring people, selected for their warmth and understanding.
We take up references and Criminal Records Bureau (Enhanced Disclosure)
checks are carried out before they can begin. All our volunteers undertake
a 40-hour induction course – all to prepare them for meeting and helping
you!
Q. What if I change my mind?
A. That’s OK – just give us a ring and let us know.
Q. How long can I keep my volunteer?
A. For as long as you have a need and continue to meet our criteria
for referral. Your co-ordinator will visit regularly to review your
progress.
Q.
How can I attend a Home-Start family group?
A. We
have to receive a referral in the normal way. A co-ordinator will
visit you and between you, you can decide whether a home visiting volunteer
or group support meets your needs.
Q.
I think I’d like to be a volunteer for Home-Start Milton Keynes; what
qualifications do I need?
A. You need to have parenting experience and a caring, understanding
attitude to young families who are experiencing difficulties.
Q. How do I apply to be
a volunteer?
A. You can find more details here.
However, please give us a call on 01908 230030 and speak to one of our
co-ordinators.
Q. What is the commitment for volunteers?
A. You need to be able to offer to visit a family once a week for two
to three hours each time. The initial training is a Preparation Course
that runs one day a week for 8 weeks or twice a week for 4 weeks (usually
term-time only 9.30 to 2.30), and other training days are offered monthly.
You will also have regular contact with our co-ordinators.
Q. What does the Preparation Course for new volunteers include?
A. The course includes sessions such as: the Role of the Volunteer,
Values and Attitudes, Communication Skills, Post Natal Depression, Confidentiality,
Safeguarding the Welfare of Children and First Aid awareness training.
Q. I don’t fancy being a "home-visiting" volunteer, what else could I do to help?
A. We need volunteers to help out at the Family Groups. Click here for more information. Volunteers working within the groups still need to complete our Preparation Course. We also need volunteers with business skills to join the Trustee Board. Or, you could help us financially!
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