Children’s charity Barnardo’s has praised its volunteers across the Isle of Wight for their support and dedication.
Barnardo’s is highlighting the importance of local support during national Volunteers’ Week which runs from 1st-7th June.
Fran Perkins from Shanklin is a Breast Feeding Supporter with Barnardo’s. Fran supports mums with breastfeeding and also volunteers at the Barnardo’s Family Centre in Sandown at the Family Play sessions. She says:
“Having a Breastfeeding Supporter at Family Play often means that more families may come along to the sessions. It is really relaxed and informal as I am there with my own child and people can just come up to me and have a chat.
“I noticed that there were quite a few mums who were in need of face to face support, when there was little or no support available to them and I felt that I could make a difference. It is such a rewarding role and I love getting the feedback from mums who have managed to continue breastfeeding”.
Penni Frankling from Ryde volunteers once a week at the Sandown Family Play and the Sparkles Stay and Play session for children with additional needs at The Bungalow in Ryde. Penni said:
“Volunteering is a job but it’s not a job! It’s just extremely worthwhile and I love supporting families and particularly those who are vulnerable. I know myself how isolating being a parent can be and even to get out of the house for an hour to chat is great for the parent and the child.
“I love working at Sparkles and one parent told me they were embarrassed to take their child to another group as no one understood. These Centre’s are so important to people – for many they are a lifeline and I am proud to volunteer here.”
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Kim Hamber, Barnardo’s Regional Volunteering Adviser, said:
“We are truly thankful to all of our fantastic volunteers for their never ending support and commitment. In turn, volunteering also provides immense personal satisfaction and is available to people of all ages, abilities and backgrounds. It’s a great way to make new friends and learn new skills, together with gaining important qualifications and experience which can really help in the search for work.
“Whatever people’s reasons for joining us, they’re helping to provide a positive future to children, young people and families across the Island.”
Barnardo’s is supported by 36 volunteers across its services on the Isle of Wight but despite this immense generosity, it continues to welcome support from people interested in volunteering on the Island.
For further information about volunteering with Barnardo’s on the Isle of Wight, contact Deborah Cobb on [email protected] or 01983 616607.
We wouldn’t be able to do it without the great support from Deborah and Louise. We always feel much appreciated and enjoy what we do. X