Which organisation do you work for?
"I work for Home-Start Wales."

What sort of voluntary work work do you do and where?
"Offer emotional and practical support to families in need, in their own homes, or by taking them out into the community."

How did you get started?
" Looking at a flyer which came through the door. Also seeing an article in the local paper about Home-Start."

How long have you been a volunteer?
" I have been a volunteer for Home-Start for ten months."

Are there any special skills you need to be a volunteer?
"In order to qualify for working for Home-Start, other than fund raising or office work, you must have had children of your own. Therefore hopefully having acquired good parenting skills. Patience, consideration for others, warmth, good communication with children as well as adults, non judgmental attitude and aptitude, honesty, reliability, a good level of self awareness."

How many hours a week/month do you give?
" For the last few months I have been giving about three and a half hours weekly. That would be about one hour travelling, the rest of the time with the family. Once a month I spend a couple of hours in Home-Start's volunteer support group, where there is often a presentation on other services, for example Women's Aid, Carmarthenshire Counselling Services. This is also valuable time to discuss any relevant issues with our Supervisor or Project Workers. "

What are the best, and worst things about being a volunteer?
"The best of helping to see the development of children and things about volunteering for me are:- Meeting caring considerate people. Enabling to develop, pursue specific interests. A possible step towards employment. Reward parents. Good for CV. "

How can others get involved?
"Ring up Home-Start regional office in Llanelli on 01554 770808."