DEMAND is growing for family mentors to support those experiencing difficulties in mid Cheshire.

Home-Start Cheshire, a charity based in Winsford but serving Northwich families, is appealing for more volunteers to give their time to help prevent family crises and breakdown.

Trained and supported by the charity, volunteer family mentors – who are often parents themselves – give up a handful of hours each week to offer crucial assistance.

“We are so proud of the support and kindness our local volunteers give every day to families in Northwich and across Cheshire, and we’re appealing this November to encourage more people to come and join our team.” said Clare Robinson, senior coordinator covering the Northwich area.

“Just a couple of hours each week can make a massive difference to a family experiencing difficulties such as postnatal illness, a child’s disability, family breakdown, isolation, bereavement and multiple births.

“Time and time again this friendship, practical and emotional support has helped families get back on track just when they’ve needed it.”

In 2017/18, Home-Start Cheshire supported 160 families and around 345 children across the county.

The charity offers full training enabling mentors to offer anything from an extra pair of hands or a companion to encouragement to attend activities or emotional support.

One mum who used the service said she had experienced isolation and loneliness, and was scared to leave the house until being matched to a mentor, who became a link to the outside world.

The charity has been supporting local families for over 20 years, but demand is growing all the time.

Clare added: “If you have parenting experience, a caring and friendly personality and have an interest in working with young families of pre-school age and under, please get in touch – we’d love to hear from you.”