Wānaka Community Networks/LINK are seeking volunteers for a new service offering support to parents in the Upper Clutha.

The Family Support Programme is for parents of preschool aged children in the Upper Clutha in need of a little extra help. 

Volunteers spend time with families in their homes, offering companionship and assisting with day-to-day household tasks - all in the context of a confidential and non-judgmental relationship.

Community Networks/LINK community development coordinator Joanna Perry said the programme had been years in the making and it is the result of long-term collaboration between community organisations and family service providers such as Volunteer South, Plunket, Wānaka Well and the Central Lakes Breastfeeding Trust. 

“We know that parental mental health and support are important issues in our community,” Joanna said. 

“With 250 babies born in the Upper Clutha every year, and the transient nature of our community, there are many families with young children who find themselves isolated and without family support.”

Volunteer South’s Central Lakes manager Gillian White agreed that, for new parents, adjusting to family life could be a real struggle. 

The programme connects parents and volunteers to provide help and companionship for new parents. PHOTO: Supplied

“Having someone there to offer a bit of companionship and a helping hand can make a huge difference,” she said.

“We've been approached many times to see if volunteers can step in to help, however what has been missing is an overriding organisation to support and coordinate the initiative, so having Community Networks/LINK to fulfil this role is fantastic news for the Upper Clutha."

The Family Support Programme is looking for caring and reliable individuals who can communicate clearly and with patience, show empathy, a sense of humour and a non-judgemental approach. 

Volunteers will be matched with a family and spend two hours in their home at an agreed time each week. 

“What Family Support looks like will vary, but it could include a catch up over a cuppa, a bit of vacuuming or washing the dishes,” Joanna said.

“Our volunteers are there to share some of the load, and in return they’ll hopefully enjoy building relationships with local families and gain satisfaction from offering support during a challenging time in their lives.”

Find more information about taking on a role as a volunteer with the Family Support Programme here.