Join us for volunteer training sessions in South Essex and make a difference of a lifetime!
BOOK YOUR PLACE - 31 March, 7, 14 APRIL 2025, 10am - 1.30pm
Having a baby should be an exciting life changing event for any parent. However, this is not the case for all parents – at the moment, we are experiencing a huge demand for emotional support pre and post birth from mothers, fathers, and birthing people.
Peer support can be a lifeline for parents who are feeling vulnerable, anxious, or isolated. Some friendly, informal, and free peer support can make the difference of a lifetime. We are looking for kind, friendly individuals who have a listening ear, who are non-judgemental and who have experience and an understanding of the pressure of having a baby.
To help meet the demand for support for families across Essex, we’re looking for volunteers to help support new and expectant parents at our outreach events. We currently run regular outdoor walk and talk sessions, antenatal information sessions, coffee mornings and first aid courses and would like volunteers to assist our friendly team at these events.
Why should I volunteer?
Parents describe peer support as “someone in their corner” who walks the journey with them. The experience of being a peer supporter can be very rewarding. Parents appreciate the unique reassurance that comes from someone who has lived experience and can develop a warm, informal relationship with them, nurturing their confidence and helping them to get to know their new baby.
During your training and time supporting parents in Essex, you will get to know other peer supporters, learn new skills, make new friends, and build your confidence. The flexibility of peer support means helps to fit your volunteering round your own family commitments.
Volunteering can be an amazing experience, and here at Parents 1st we highly value the contribution that our volunteers give to the communities we serve. In return, we endeavour to give our volunteers a rewarding and enjoyable experience, with full training and regular supervision sessions to ensure they’re prepared and feel supported themselves.
How do I get involved?
Find a date that works for you and book onto one of our training courses!
Can't join us this time?
If you can't make any of these dates, then why not complete our expression of interest form and a member of staff will get in contact to chat through next steps!
If you’d like an informal chat with our volunteer trainer, Zoe Jarvis, please feel free to give her a call on 07968 059102 or email [email protected]
What does the full training involve?
- Volunteer training starts by attending a training course which is 3 x 3.5 in person training sessions.
- We will cover important topics such as safeguarding, boundaries of the role, communication, confidentiality and listening skills.
- Our approach is friendly and relaxed so that you enjoy the experience whilst also building your knowledge and skills. You will also be offered ongoing support and training. Most of all we want to equip you to be a confident volunteer.
How much time do I need to commit?
Following the training, volunteering is flexible to fit around your own family commitments.