You must be 18+ but there is no upper age limit.

You will be asked for the names of two people to provide personal references. If this is difficult for you, come and discuss the issue with us

Yes. Everyone in the Home-Start team has to complete the Barring and Disclosure Service (DBS) process. Any other issues will be considered individually so come and discuss with us, in confidence, if this applies to you.

There are no tests and very little written work as the course uses discussions on family experiences and personal experiences to cover the topics.

The process for recruiting Volunteers gives you time to decide if you feel you will enjoy and have the commitment needed for home visiting. This applies also during the Preparation Course when any doubts can be discussed with the Coordinator and if these persist you can leave the course at any point.

No. School holidays, including half term, are all avoided in the Preperation Course.

Usually you visit one family at a time, and occasionally two, depending on how much time you can commit to.

A Coordinator will “match” you to a family according to the needs of the family, and taking into consideration your experiences and interests, as well as other factors such as preferred days to visit. You will be told a bit about the family and have the opportunity to discuss whether you think it will be right for you.

The matching process is done very carefully and so usually there are very few problems but any concerns can be raised with your Coordinator at any time, and your Coordinator can provide extra support. Your Coordinator will also contact you regularly to ensure that the visits are going well and to offer suggestions and extra help if needed.

Travel expenses (bus or car mileage) will be paid within the Newark boundary for costs incurred in home visiting.