FAQs

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 01442 254499 and chat with one of the Home-Start Dacorum co-ordinators.

Q. I've been referred to Home-Start Dacorum. 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 Dacorum 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?
We work closely with you and your volunteer to ensure you get the support you need for the appropriate length of time. Most families will have support for around 9 months - 1 year; some families need much less support from a volunteer, others may need more than that. We cannot however work with a family after the youngest child turns 5 years of age.

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 Dacorum; 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 01442 254499 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 9 weeks (usually term-time only 9.30 to 2.30), and other training days are offered throughout the year. You will also have regular support and supervision with our co-ordinators.

Q. What does the Preparation Course for new volunteers include?
A. A wide-range of subjects relevant to volunteering with families is covered, including the Role of the Volunteer, Values and Attitudes, Communication Skills, Post Natal Depression, Confidentiality, and Safeguarding the Welfare of Children.

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!