"Volunteering at Hucknall Children's Centre"

I started volunteering a couple of years ago at Hucknall Children's Centre. I did not have any experience of the work at Sure Start. The staff were very welcoming and offered volunteer training which I did. The following groups have given me lots of experience - Terrific Tots and Dads Group. My confidence and self esteem has grown lots during my role as a volunteer. Lots of courses have been undertaken including English and IT - these subjects had not been taken since I was at college where I took GCSE's to get grade C. I met new friends on courses.

I feel like I am one of the team at the Children's Centre as volunteers are treated like staff. The Centre usually holds a volunteer celebration once a year, where I have won several awards which makes me feel it is worthwhile doing what I do at Sure Start. My main job is gardening but I have shown willing to help with looking after children which has given me a great insight into the role of a childcare worker. I would recommend volunteering to anyone wanting to work in this area.

I am involved with the Local Advisory Group, my main role is the Chairperson where I manage how the meeting runs and meet professionals who work in similar settings.