IN 2008 Chloe Rendall was first introduced to Home-Start Lochgelly, a unique charity which offers one-to-one home visiting support for families in the local area.

With a young child the weekly support of the Home-Start volunteers allowed her time for herself and the opportunity to talk with someone who had valuable parenting experience.

Once Chloe's confidence grow, she realised that she wanted to do something worthwhile for herself, she wanted to offer the support that had been so beneficial to her.

So with the help of staff she applied and became a volunteer with Home Start Lochgelly. This involved Chloe attending and successfully completing a four week training programme. Not only did she make new friends during the course but she was now trained to offer support like she had once received.

This was a fantastic achievement, however; Chloe’s journey did not stop here. Having gained experience of volunteering and recognising what she could now offer, she decided to apply to become a family member of the board of trustees with Home-Start Lochgelly. After an application process, Chloe was successful.

Said Chloe: "Through the support and understanding shown by my volunteer, I went from being a mum being offered support, to becoming a home-visiting volunteer, and to helping shape the charity through being a board member.

"During her time at Home-Start Lochgelly had achieved so much and had gained invaluable experience of helping and supporting others, meeting an interacting with different people and the importance of the work volunteers do."

And now, this Home-Start Lochgelly success story has recently started university to become a nurse.

Said Home Start's Claire, based at the Home Start's Units 16-18 at the Crosshill Centre: "All at Home-Start Lochgelly are extremely proud of her.

"The impact that you can make as a volunteer cannot be underestimated and at Home-Start Lochgelly we strive to ensure that you become part of the family and will support you in what you would like to achieve.

"A couple of hours a week can make a huge difference to someone's life as Chloe’s story highlights".

Still unsure if this is for you? Why not go along to the Home Start coffee morning at their offices at the Brag Business Centre, Crosshill on Wednesday September 28. People will be able to meet and speak to some of the volunteers about what they have gained and what it is like being a member of the Home-Start Lochgelly family.

The next volunteer preparation course is starting soon so don’t delay go along on the September 28or give Tracy or Sharon a call on 01592 611103 for further information.

Your parenting experience is invaluable, why not share it with a family in need and join this fantastic unique charity, Home-Start Lochgelly.