SEVEN new Home-Start Butser volunteers have completed the Home-Start Butser preparation course which was run at the Liss Triangle Centre.

Tom, Ian, Sandra, Jo, Lauren, Sue and Kate are now being matched with local families to support them through a critical time. The 11-week course was generously supported by the East Hampshire District Councillors for Liss, Cllr Laetitia Pienaar and Cllr Mike Kendall.

Home-Start Butser manager Nicola Winter said: “All volunteers attend the Home-Start preparation course, which they have to complete before they are matched to their first family. Many say this training offers a real insight into the issues facing families today and helps to increase their confidence and knowledge.

“Once this is combined with their own parenting experience this gives them a strong foundation on which to build their support for families struggling to cope.”

Home-Start Butser is a local charity which provides a lifeline for young families. The charity is facing serious funding issues and has launched a new Ambassador scheme.

It is hoped this initiative will help Home-Start Butser raise much-needed resources, and awareness of their life-changing service.

Nicola added: “Our support is a lifeline to families; whether they are suffering from post-natal depression, poverty, or a lack of family support, many rely on our help and expertise. We are looking for willing volunteers – any age, from any walk of life – to become ambassadors and help us raise awareness of our service.