COULD you volunteer to help others facing difficult issues to strengthen and develop their family life?

Volunteering Matters is seeking 50 volunteers to mentor and support 50 Southend families with complex needs, such as alcohol or substance misuse where children are at risk of significant harm through neglect.

The organisation is working in partnership with the Council on a nationwide scheme.

Volunteers will be specially trained, supported and reimbursed for any expenses and will visit the families every week.

They build strong relationships with the parent/s, listen to problems and offer practical help.

This scheme, now in its seventh year in Southend, targets families most in need of support.

James Courtenay, portfolio holder for Children and Learning, said: “These are extremely fulfilling volunteering opportunities, where you can make a real difference to the lives of children and families struggling in difficult circumstances.

“Through their regular visits, volunteers can gain the trust and respect of the families needing support, and can help them become independent.

“They might need assistance with a whole range of things, sometimes just words of advice, a helping hand with practical activities, or guidance towards useful local resources.

“Volunteers find these roles hugely rewarding, as they recognise how much they are helping families and supporting their local communities.

“If you feel you can share your experiences of the benefits of family life, we would love to hear from you.”

The vital volunteers help keep these families together and reduce the number of children on child protection plans or child in need plans.

Their input helps improve parenting skills which reduces isolation. This boosts the quality of family life and thereby reduces the need to rely on social care services.

For more details, please contact Cathie Whitehead on 01702 534262 or catherinewhitehead@southend.gov.uk