When I moved to this country and began looking for work, I went to the JobCentre and arranged an interview with a careers advisor, who suggested that work in the field of social welfare would suit me. I was advised to get some experience through working in the voluntary sector. I contacted Flintshire Voluntary Council in Mold and they put me in touch with Homestart. I was accepted as a volunteer and went on to do their course of preparation.

Home-Start helps families with young children who are experiencing stress or difficulties. I visit a family every week to provide support. I talk to the parent, play with the children and help with small household chores. I find it very rewarding because I know how much the family I visit appreciate me - the mother recently told me that knowing I'll be visiting her helps her get through the week.

I also help to organise the Home-Start Family Support Group every Thursday.

Volunteering has really helped me as a newcomer to Wales. I made a lot of friends on the Homestart course, which was a great welcome to the country. Without Home-Start I don't know how I would have coped. I found out a lot about the structure of the social system here and learnt about the other organisations that exist. I've also learnt new parenting skills to help with my own family life.

I'm currently studying a health and social welfare course with the Open University and the practical experience I've gained with Home-Start has been extremely useful. I'd definitely recommend volunteering to other people.