Home-Start Down District volunteers and staff enjoy safeguarding training session
Home-Start Down District hosted a successful Safeguarding Training Day on Wednesday 4th March at Frenchies, Clough, bringing together 35 volunteers and staff from across the district.
The event highlighted the vital role safeguarding plays in supporting families, with a clear message throughout the day: keeping children safe is everyone’s responsibility.
Volunteers of all ages and backgrounds took part in the training, reflecting the diverse range of support they provide each week.
Their roles include assisting families in their own homes, helping at group sessions, and supporting the charity’s shop in Newcastle, which raises essential funds to help their local services.
The training was led by Manager Imelda Hynds and Senior Organiser Sharon Robson. Sessions explored lessons from recent safeguarding scandals in England and considered how these insights can strengthen local safeguarding practice.
Alongside the learning, the day included a variety of team-building activities such as speed-dating and bingo, as well as refreshments and opportunities for volunteers to connect and share experiences.
Manager Imelda Hynds said: “Training days like this are so important.
“They give volunteers the chance to come together, explore important issues, have some fun and be recognised for the amazing contribution they make to families right across the district.”
Home-Start Down District will begin a new volunteer preparation course in April and is encouraging anyone interested in supporting local families to get involved.
For more information or to express interest in volunteering, please email:
