What you'll do
Ohana Parents have helped us compile this list of ways you may be able to support them:
- have a cuppa and a chat so they can talk through things that may be worrying them
- support them with attending appointments, groups, or meetings
- support them with understanding and completing forms or applications
- help them with planning and tasks like shopping, budgeting, paying bills, tidying, cleaning, and preparing healthy meals
- practical support like helping them to move house or basic DIY
- support them to plan and do fun activities with their children
- help them grow their confidence to find and build new relationships
- help them to find information and organisations that can help them with specific things they're worrying about
- help them to think about and plan for giving birth and preparing to be a parent.
Skills and experience needed
This isn't a professional or paid role and we are not expecting experts. We're looking for individuals who can provide ongoing and supportive relationships.
Ohana Champions and parents will be matched based on factors such as interests, skills, needs, geography and availability. A tailored support agreement will be drawn up between parent and Champion so everybody is clear on when and what has been agreed. This will be periodically reviewed to make sure everybody is happy.
Ohana Champions:
- offer a regular commitment
- are flexible, reliable and non-judgemental
- are supportive, confident, calm and good listeners
- understand the need for privacy and confidentiality
- have experience of babies and children, through their own life experience or employment
- drive and have access to transport (desired)
- promote inclusion
- know when young parents or their children may need more help than the Champion can provide
- understand and abide by the Hertfordshire County Council policies and procedures in relation to safeguarding, confidentiality and equal opportunities.
This volunteer role is subject to an enhanced DBS check.
Time required
How much time you spend volunteering will depend on your availability and the needs of the young parent you are matched with.
We’ll introduce you to a young parent whose needs fit the time and support you’re happy to offer, and ask for a two-year commitment so you have time to build a strong, trusting relationship.
The Ohana team will support you throughout this relationship.
Locations
Volunteer opportunities are available across Hertfordshire.