Today we want to take a moment to celebrate Sabrina’s time volunteering with Home‑Start Bradford District.
Her dedication, kindness, and commitment have made a real difference to the families we support. From giving her time to offering a listening ear, Sabrina has shown the true spirit of Home‑Start — being there when families need it most.
We are so grateful for everything she has given during her volunteering journey, and we wish her all the very best for what comes next.
This message comes straight from Sabrina, following her time volunteering with us. She wanted to share her experience and encourage others to get involved too:
What initially attracted you to Home-Start Volunteering?
I initially visited the Thornbury Centre to enquire about attending some courses. It was there that I learned about Home-Start and the support they offer to families. It instantly appealed as an exciting new challenge and something just for me. One of the training courses was just about to start and Trudi acted quickly and was able to get me added. I started the training being quiet and reserved, never would I speak up in public or voice my opinion, but after a few sessions I found my confidence growing and I was able to participate in group discussions when people stopped, listened and respected my thoughts and opinions. I suddenly realised I was being recognised as Sabrina. Someone with a voice and experiences which can be shared, and not just a mum or grandma. When I completed the training and received my certificate, I was so pleased and proud of myself that I became quite emotional. I remember standing up and telling the group that this was my first ever certificate of achievement and how much it meant to me. I believe I had the whole room in tears.
What did you enjoy the most about your time with Home-Start Bradford District?
The list is endless. The staff and all the team are amazing. Particularly Lisa and Trudi who have been my coordinators. They have always supported me both professionally as well as personally. When ever I needed a chat and a listening ear. Without their encouragement and support I would not have been able to become and continue being a volunteer. They have been amazing for the whole of the past two years.
I loved attending the training, the events, the Christmas wrap and parties were always so much fun! The sharing buffet at the end of the training was not only delicious but a great end to seven weeks training. The peer support sessions run by Salema were always lovely. It was a great opportunity to meet up and enjoy a walk or a cuppa as well as meeting other volunteers and sharing experiences. I particularly enjoyed meeting Ruth, who had many interesting stories from her 30 plus years as being a Home-Start volunteer. I even enjoyed my six weekly supervisions with my coordinator, when the business side was covered, we would always have a nice catch up and it was obvious that they genuinely cared about me and what was happening in my personal life.
Was there anything you found particularly difficult?
No, nothing.
I was very nervous for the first meeting with my first family, but the nerves soon disappeared.
Do you feel that your volunteering has had a positive impact on the families you supported?
My very first family will always be one of my fondest memories. I was so very nervous at our first meeting with my coordinator. I was quiet and didn’t quite know what to say. However, on my first visit unaccompanied the family and I instantly connected, and conversation just flowed. I was surprised at how quickly she was able to leave the children in my care to shower or complete a few chores. I was incredibly honoured to have that level of trust between us so quickly. The family also regularly expressed their gratitude to me and told me how invaluable my weekly visits were. We have remained friends and often exchange messages. Another memory which stuck out to me was when I supported a family with an autistic child. The child approached me for a hug, which I reciprocated. He then made a loud noise and started waving his arms around. I thought I had done something wrong, but the mum quickly reassured me and told me it was in fact the opposite and that he obviously felt comfortable enough to do that and he was expressing his joy. When I left the family home seeing children’s happy smiling faces and parents looking relaxed, I knew I had helped that family and it was such an indescribable happy feeling.
How well were you supported by your coordinator and by Home-Start Bradford District?
There is not a high enough number! Lisa and Trudi have been there for me 100% throughout! Be it professional or personal, and I know I have grown as a person because of their continuous support and encouragement. I am leaving Home-Start due to a change in my circumstances, but I do hope that I will be able to return one day. A huge thank you to all the team. Bradford families are lucky to have you. I will be back at Christmas with my chicken biryani!
