Over recent months Home-Start in Carmarthenshire has undergone a transformation merging two successful schemes together to create a larger seamless service throughout the county.

Supporting families since 1995, the organisation has had a huge impact on the families they support.

In the last year alone Home-Start have supported 165 families thanks to 2,314 hours of direct support offered fully trained volunteers.

Families struggling with post-natal depression, isolation, physical health problems, bereavement and many other issues receive the support of a volunteer who will spend around two hours a week in a family’s home supporting them in the ways they need.

Scheme Manager Victoria Thomas said: "Out team of dedicated volunteers can make a difference by helping families to cope during the challenges family life can bring.

"Sometimes knowing someone is there to listen and not judge is all our service users need to make positive changes.

"Our team of eight staff have been relocated to a central office in Ammanford, which boasts training facilities for volunteers.

"This has become the hub of our service in Carmarthenshire, housing a wide range of resources to work enable us to with parents and children."

Home-Start have recently received funding from Tesco Bags for Help to deliver cooking sessions to groups of families to help them to feed their families on a budget, this will be starting soon.

"Volunteers are at the heart of our service and receive full training and supervision throughout their time with us," said Vicky.

"It is a great way to refresh your skills if returning to employment,

"You will gain valuable work experience and enhance your skills whilst having the security of ongoing training and supervision from our team."

"If you are in a position to offer a few hours a week to make a difference to local families by sharing your experience and offering a listening ear you are what we are looking for."

Initial training is informal and friendly whilst preparing you for your role as a volunteer. Training and DBS checks are free and travel expenses will be given.

For more information call 01269 593853 or visit Crown Buildings, Hall Street, Ammanford SA18 3BW or alternatively you can email volunteering@homestartcarmarthenshire.org.uk.