Volunteers’ Stories
Being a volunteer for Home-Start Lambeth is a rewarding experience. Below are a couple of accounts by volunteers:
Mariam’s Story
“I first heard about Home-Start from an existing Home Start volunteer, the feedback was amazing and i was instantly interested!
After my interview, I knew straight away it was the perfect fit. The training opened my eyes, especially my listening skills. I thought I was a good listener… I wasn’t! But now, months later, I can honestly say I’ve grown so much!
People often ask if it’s scary going into a family’s home. At first, it can feel a bit nerve-wracking—but you’re never alone. You’re fully supported, and that makes all the difference.
And the role? It’s simple, but powerful. Sometimes it’s listening, sometimes it’s playing with children, or supporting a parent to get out to an appointment. It’s about being there.
Would I do this full time if I could? Absolutely!
There’s something incredibly special about giving just two hours a week and seeing a family begin to feel stronger, more confident, and less alone. The change doesn’t always happen overnight but then one day, you walk through the door and you feel it. Something has shifted.
That’s the moment you realise just how much your time, your presence, and your kindness truly matter.
There are so many families in Lambeth who just need that small bit of support—and I can’t recommend it enough. “
Mariam, Home-Start Volunteer
Pauline’s Story
“I decided to become a (…) volunteer as I have children of my own and I understand that the task of parenting can sometimes be difficult; especially if you are raising them on your own or with little support. I felt that supporting a family would be a good way to give back to the community.
My initial feelings before meeting my family were of self-doubt and I began to question whether I could really make a difference. But, after talking it through with one of the co-ordinators, hearing a little about the family and being reminded that they had asked for help; my mind was put at ease.
The first visit was made with the co-ordinator who introduced us, covered a few ground rules and then left us to get acquainted. The visit went very well and time seemed to fly by as I found out about the family and I left feeling happy that we had got off to a good start and arrangements were made for me to visit again.
It took a while after that meeting (3 weeks) before my family agreed to another visit (I was advised that this happens sometimes) and once again things went well and my visits became more regular.
I developed a friendship with this parent who is a single mum with her first child who has a disability. I was able to offer my support by accompanying them to physiotherapy appointments, hospital visits, trips to the park, shopping, helping out in the home or with the baby and being someone to talk to.
She has had many highs and lows throughout the time I have been visiting and I think having someone there who was willing to listen without being judgmental was of great help.
I have been visiting my family for well over a year now and my time of doing so is soon to come to an end. I have found it to be an enjoyable and worthwhile experience because in giving back, my own life has been enriched in terms of renewed confidence and sense of worth.
Volunteering has been a great way for me to offer a helping hand. It has also acted as a great stepping stone for getting back into work and something I would recommend to anyone who has any reservations about doing it.”
Pauline, Home-Start Volunteer
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