When Gemma became a Home-Start Kernow home-visiting volunteer, she was looking for an opportunity to support local families. She didn’t realise it would also help shape her career.
As a home-visiting volunteer, Gemma spent two or three hours each week providing practical and emotional support to a family with young children. She completed Home-Start Kernow’s volunteer preparation course and received regular support and supervision from her Family Support Co-ordinator, Sam.
“The support was always there,” Gemma explains. “From the very beginning, I felt part of the team. I always knew I had someone to turn to if I needed advice or encouragement.”
As Gemma’s confidence grew, so did her involvement with Home-Start Kernow. Alongside her home-visiting role, she supported Sam to establish our St Austell Stay & Play groups before later taking the lead in running them herself. In total, Gemma volunteered with Home-Start Kernow for five and a half years, building valuable experience while making a real difference to local families.
Through volunteering, Gemma discovered a real passion for supporting families. With encouragement from Sam, she began to consider turning that passion into a career. Together, they explored her options, discussed degree courses and the next steps she could take.
Inspired by her experience, Gemma enrolled on a Mental Health degree. Three years later, she graduated with a First Class Honours degree in Integrated Working with Children and Families and joined the Home-Start Kernow team as a Family Support Co-ordinator.
Nearly two years on, Gemma is now supporting families and volunteers in the same way she was once supported herself, helping others experience the encouragement, confidence and sense of belonging that helped her flourish.
“Volunteering with Home-Start Kernow changed the direction of my life. It gave me confidence, helped me discover what I wanted to do, and opened the door to a career I genuinely love. I honestly don’t think I’d be where I am today without it.”
Gemma’s story is a wonderful reminder that volunteering doesn’t just make a difference to the families we support. It can also build confidence, develop new skills and open the door to career opportunities.
If you’re interested in becoming a Home-Start Kernow volunteer, we’d love to hear from you. Get in touch for a chat at info@homestartkernow.org.uk.