At Home-Start Camden and Islington, volunteers and trustees come from many different backgrounds, but they all share one goal — helping families feel supported, valued and less alone. For many, getting involved has not only changed the lives of the families they support, but has also become one of the most rewarding experiences of their own lives.
Finding purpose through volunteering
One Home Start volunteer described volunteering as a chance to reconnect with a younger version of themselves, when they were a struggling parent trying to navigate life without much support. “That experience has stayed with me, and it’s why I’m so passionate about helping other parents now,” they explained. “I give the support I once wished I’d had, hoping it brings comfort, strength and even the smallest positive difference to a family going through difficult times.” For them, volunteering is about much more than simply giving time. It is about offering reassurance, understanding and kindness to parents who may feel isolated or overwhelmed. They explained that even small moments of support can have a lasting impact on a family.
The power of being there
“Sometimes parents just need someone who understands and doesn’t judge them,” they said. “Knowing you can make someone feel less alone is incredibly rewarding.” Volunteering has also helped them build confidence and feel more connected to their community. Meeting families from different backgrounds and supporting them through difficult times has strengthened their belief in compassion, empathy and the importance of human connection.
Michael Sanderson’s trustee journey
“Becoming a trustee was one of the best decisions I’ve made.”
Michael shared that becoming a trustee at Home-Start Camden & Islington has been both meaningful and professionally rewarding. Initially, he was unsure what trusteeship involved and described it as confusing, but after attending an information session through the King’s Aspiring Trustees Programme, he quickly understood that trustees use their skills and experience to guide charities and support their long-term sustainability. He later met representatives from Home-Start Camden & Islington at the King’s Trustee Fair, where he felt an immediate connection with the organisation and its mission. Since joining as a trustee, Michael has contributed to strategy, governance, safeguarding, risk management, and staff wellbeing, and he has also found the role valuable for his own development. Most importantly, he says he feels a strong sense of purpose knowing his contribution directly supports families and strengthens the organisation.
A big THANK YOU
We are incredibly grateful to all our volunteers and trustees at Home-Start Camden & Islington. Their time, care and commitment sit at the heart of everything we do, and the difference they make is felt by families every single day.
What stands out most is not just the support they give, but the way they give it — with patience, empathy and real understanding. Many speak about how much they gain in return too, from confidence and connection to a stronger sense of purpose and belonging. It is this shared effort that helps families feel less alone and more supported during difficult times. We simply could not do what we do without them.
To every volunteer and trustee, thank you. Your kindness and dedication matter more than you know, and we are truly appreciative of everything you bring to Home-Start Camden & Islington.