This Volunteers Week we caught up with one of our Home-Start Bradford District volunteers, Debbie Wood. Not only does Debbie, 54, support Home-Start families, she is also a kinship foster carer for a 20 month-old boy, alongside her three children.
Interview with Debbie
HSBD: How did you find out about Home-Start Bradford District?
Debbie: I was a kinship foster carer (now special guardian) for my 16 and 14 year old daughters and had previously volunteered at another Home-Start branch with the Leeds Kinship Team. I had really enjoyed my experience and wanted to give something back to the community using my knowledge around children, parenting and special educational needs (SEN).
HSBD: Did you enjoy our Volunteer Preparation Course?
Debbie: I really enjoyed it – it was very thought provoking and challenged my thinking in the areas that I want to support given some of my own life experiences. Even though I had completed the course before at another branch and it was more of a refresher, I did discover more knowledge around parenting in different cultures and the way families can be made up. I also loved meeting fellow volunteer trainees and becoming part of the ‘Home-Start family’ again – we were all made to feel so welcome and valued.
HSBD: What would you say to others thinking of volunteering?
Debbie: Go for it! You won’t regret it as you’ll be part of a much valued and welcoming team. Have confidence in yourself that your lived experiences can make a huge difference to others even if you feel it’s something quite small to you.
I would also tell them that I’m proud to be part of such an amazing organisation!
