My Volunteer Story – Andreia
Volunteers are at the heart of Home-Start! Today we want to introduce you to Andreia, a brilliant volunteer with Home-Start Lambeth. She shared her volunteering story with us:
What inspired you to start volunteering?
I first heard about Home-Start while I was studying. Someone from Home-Start Lambeth came to speak about the organisation and explain how volunteers support families. As soon as I heard about it, my heart felt full of joy because helping families has always been something I wanted to do. I wanted to make a difference in people’s lives, especially at important moments when support can have a real impact. I also realised how serious and responsible the role was. The process to become a volunteer was detailed and careful, which showed me how much Home-Start Lambeth values providing the best and safest support possible for families. That made me admire the organisation even more.
What did you do as a volunteer?
I volunteered for six months supporting a mother who had recently had her first baby. She was raising her child on her own and was experiencing motherhood for the first time, so I had the opportunity to support her during an important stage of her life. My background in Education, together with my life experience as a mother, helped me understand the importance of early childhood development and supporting families during those first stages of parenting. I was able to share encouragement, practical support and guidance while also learning from her experiences. One of the most rewarding parts was seeing her confidence grow and watching both mother and baby develop over time. Knowing that our visits mattered and feeling that they looked forward to seeing me made the experience even more meaningful.
What difference has volunteering made to you?
Volunteering helped me grow as a person. It strengthened not only my desire to help people but also my understanding of how important care, compassion and responsibility are. I was also impressed by the dedication and professionalism of Home-Start Lambeth. I could see how much care goes into making sure families receive the best possible support, and that inspired me even more. The experience reminded me that even small acts of kindness can make a real difference. It allowed me to combine my passion for helping people with the knowledge and skills I have developed through my educational background and life experience. My volunteering lasted six months, and I feel truly grateful to have been part of it. It was a meaningful experience that brought me joy and taught me a lot about myself and others.
What three words would you use to describe your volunteering?
Rewarding, meaningful and inspiring.
What would you say to someone considering volunteering?
I would say: do it. Volunteering can change lives – not only for the families you support, but also for yourself. It is an opportunity to learn, grow and become part of something that truly matters.
Could you spare 2 hours a week to make a difference that lasts a lifetime? Find out more about volunteering with Home-Start here.