Volunteers needed to support Islington families
Islington Council and national charity CSV (Community Service Volunteers) are looking for volunteers to help support vulnerable local families.
Islington's Think Family team and CSV have teamed up to launch the new project. Volunteers will be recruited to befriend Islington families living with a parent or carer who has mental health problems, and possibly a range of other difficulties, including misuse of drugs and/or alcohol.
The volunteers will make regular visits to families and offer non-judgmental practical and social support to help them improve their family life. This could include helping socially isolated families to access local services, enabling children to take part in activities, offering support with parenting skills and practical household tasks, and being a role model to children and parents.
Islington Council's executive member for children and young people, Cllr Paula Belford said:
"This is a really great opportunity for local people who are able to volunteer some of their time. Families who are coping with difficult situations can often feel isolated so it's important that we're working with CSV to offer this support.
"Volunteers from all different types of backgrounds are needed."
CSV will provide all volunteers with full training and ongoing support. They are particularly keen to hear from people who live and work in Islington who have some parenting experience, but anyone aged 18 or over can apply to volunteer. Those who are interested are encouraged to register their interest by December 4th. The first training course for the project will take place in early February.
The project is based in the Islington Think Family team, which is made up of a variety of professionals and is part of Islington's Children's Services. Volunteers will complement the work of the team by building up an independent relationship of trust with a family.
Anyone wanting to find out more about this challenging but rewarding role, should contact Rachel James, CSV Volunteering Project Manager in the Think Family team.
Email: rachel.james@islington.gov.uk
Phone: 020 7 527 2570
Mobile: 07826 904 775
ENDS
Page Last Updated: 12 November 2009