The parents have taken part in a volunteer project run by Wandsworth Council’s Parental Involvement Service and Family Action, a charity for socially isolated families.

The scheme offers work placements at local children’s centres where parents can build up their confidence and skills in a familiar and supporting environment.  The centres also benefit from the volunteer’s hard work and assistance.

The roles undertaken include outreach assistants, creche assistants, parent buddies and family support volunteers.

A range of specialist training has also been provided to support the volunteers’ professional development including lessons on safeguarding children, public speaking and time keeping. 

Hadas Hagos, a volunteer admin assistant said:
“My volunteer role has made me feel so much better about myself.  It is great to feel useful, and that I am giving something back to the Children’s Centres, as I have received so much support from them since my daughter was born.   I never thought I’d be able to do something like this. I had very little self-belief, or confidence in my abilities. The Volunteer Project has made me feel valued, and realise I have plenty to offer.”

Mayor of Wandsworth Cllr Piers McCausland (pictured left) will be presenting the parents with their certificates at the Yvonne Carr Centre, Battersea today.

The award ceremony is taking place during National Volunteer Week (June 1 - 9), an annual event celebrating the contribution millions of volunteers make across the UK.

As part of the campaign the Volunteer Centre Wandsworth is organising a volunteer speed dating event on Thursday, June 3. 

The session will give organisations that need help and people interested in volunteering the chance to find out about each other in a speedy chat with no commitment. ‘Daters’ will be able to move from table to table to find out about as many opportunities as possible.   To take part, drop in any time between 10am and 2pm at Balham Library.  There is no need to book.

June 2, 2010