After 30 years as a Primary School Teacher, Karoline was looking for a new challenge that would allow her to continue making a difference to children and families. Through volunteering with Home-Start Cambridgeshire, she found exactly that.
When her youngest son left for university, Karoline found herself with a little more time each week and wanted to use it in a meaningful way. After researching local volunteering opportunities, she discovered Home-Start Cambridgeshire and immediately felt connected to the charity’s values and mission.
“After some researching, I found Home-Start Cambridgeshire’s website and knew I had found the right place,” says Karoline. “The organisation’s ethos and aims were so important to me. The ‘school readiness’ information made me realise I could play a small part in helping children begin school ready to learn.”
Throughout her teaching career, Karoline saw first-hand how difficult starts in life can affect children’s learning, confidence and wellbeing. She understands the importance of offering support early, helping parents feel more confident and giving children the best possible start before they begin school.
Since becoming a Home-Start volunteer, Karoline has supported a wide range of families, building trusting relationships through regular visits. She enjoys watching children grow in confidence and seeing parents benefit from having someone to listen, encourage and support them through the everyday challenges of family life.
“I have really enjoyed working with a complete range of families,” she explains. “The children are initially hesitant, but very soon they enjoy playing and interacting. The parents are great too and seem to appreciate having company and someone to talk to.”
For Karoline, some of the biggest changes come from the small things. Whether it’s helping establish routines, boosting a parent’s confidence or simply being there to listen, she knows that consistent support can have a lasting impact on the whole family.
Reflecting on her volunteering experience, Karoline says, “It’s so rewarding to give back and support a family with the challenges of parenting. I find the whole experience really enjoyable.”
We would like to thank Karoline for sharing her time, experience and compassion with local families. Her dedication is helping parents feel more supported, children thrive, and families build brighter futures together.
If Karoline’s story has inspired you to become a Home-Start Cambridgeshire volunteer, you can find out more about volunteering here.
