What we do

Our purpose is simple: to make a positive difference to the families we work with. Regardless of background, or the kind of struggles they face, each of our families receives the most appropriate support from the range that Friends of the Family can offer.

We need Volunteers

to befriend children aged 5 to 13, for just 2 hours a week! Call us on 01962 864466 or email volunteer@fotfwinchester.org

This is a great opportunity to undertake a rewarding voluntary role and make a positive difference to a child’s life. Volunteers receive training and paid travel expenses.

Mums and toddler support group

This confidential group  provides  a  safe  haven  for  mums  with  pre-school-aged children  when  home-life  is  challenging  and  they  need  support.  The  group meets  on  Tuesday  and  Friday  mornings  and  runs  year-round.  It  is  facilitated  by a psychotherapist, a trained children’s play leader, as well as a team of volunteers.

What are the benefits?

The group offers mums an opportunity to share and learn from others; a place to talk through  and  resolve  difficulties  they  are  experiencing  without  judgement;  to make new friends; establish support networks, and to build their own confidence.

Dads support group

The dads group offers confidential support to men with children aged 0 to 5 years who are struggling with their role as a parent and experiencing challenges within their family environment. The group meets fortnightly on a Friday evening and is facilitated by a qualified counsellor.

What are the benefits?

Dads find this group a welcome refuge from the challenges they face as a parent and a source of reassurance and support. Many also appreciate the opportunity to talk freely with fathers in similar situations.

At home support for families

This service offers confidential support, in the home, to families with children aged 5 to 13. A trained volunteer visits a focus child within a family on a regular basis to help them work through possible solutions to challenges they face.

What are the benefits?

Families receive  tailored  support,  specific  to  the  challenges  they  face.  Both children and parents  have  access  to  the  friendly  and  confidential  listening  ear  of  a  dedicated  volunteer.  With the  long-term  support  of  their  volunteer,  families  build  confidence  and  learn  to  help  themselves  within  the  safety  of  their  home environment.

Volunteer

Volunteers are at the heart of the work we do. Without them, Friends of the Family could not support the growing number of families in the Winchester area that seek our help. Roles range from  play  volunteers  at  our  mums  and  toddler  group,  to  those  who provide home support to a family for a couple of hours a week. But we are always keen to hear from anyone who can offer their experience and expertise to us or simply their spare time.

It is a small, friendly organisation and is based at the Quaker Meeting House in the centre of Winchester.