Transforming Lives: Home-Start Cymru Celebrates the Power of Volunteering in 2024–25 Impact Report

Home-Start Cymru has released its inspiring 2024–25 Impact Report, highlighting a year of remarkable progress, deep community connection, and the life-changing impact of its dedicated volunteers across Wales.

At the heart of the report is a resounding message: volunteers are the beating heart of Home-Start Cymru’s mission. With a 12% increase in new volunteers and the introduction of a groundbreaking three-year Volunteer Strategy, the charity is not only expanding its reach but redefining what modern, inclusive volunteering can look like.

“Volunteering is incredibly rewarding,” says former Home-Start Cymru volunteer and newly appointed Mayor of Rhondda Cynon Taf, Sheryl Evans. “It changed my life, and I now want to champion it throughout my community.”

Volunteer-Led, Volunteer-Shaped

Home-Start Cymru has evolved its approach to volunteering through meaningful dialogue with those who give their time. A new Volunteer Voice Group meets monthly, shaping decisions and influencing service design. Feedback gathered through family and volunteer surveys has driven improvements to onboarding, training, and role flexibility—making it easier than ever for people to contribute in ways that work for them.

With funding from WCVA, new remote and group-based roles have made volunteering more accessible, while digital onboarding and eLearning modules have removed barriers for many.

Who Volunteers—and Why?

A recent survey reveals:

• 96.6% volunteer to help others
• 53% are motivated by lived experience
• 36% aim to gain skills for work or education
• 33% are seeking community connection

For many, volunteering is not just about giving—it’s a lifeline, a confidence builder, and a stepping stone to new opportunities.

Case Studies That Inspire

Two volunteers’ stories underscore the real-world impact of this work.

• Ellise Davies, a Family Support Worker, channels her lived experience into deep, authentic relationships with the families she supports. “It’s not something I put on; it’s ingrained in me,” she shares, reflecting the charity’s focus on social pedagogy and the concept of Haltung—bringing your whole self to the role.
• Melanie Parsons, who became a volunteer after 30 years as a full-time carer, says, “I felt like I had lost my identity. Volunteering gave me purpose again.” Her compassion and shared life experience have helped two families find strength during vulnerable times.

Real Change, Real Results

Behind the stories and strategies are hard-hitting statistics:

• 1,417 families supported
• 2,532 children reached
• 4,096 referral reasons, often involving complex, overlapping needs

Volunteering at Home-Start Cymru goes far beyond friendly visits—it provides emotional support, routine stability, and critical early intervention that helps families navigate mental health struggles, poverty, isolation, and child development concerns.

This year’s impact data shows:

• 87% of families improved in managing children’s behavior
• 84% saw gains in children’s mental health
• 78% reported increased emotional resilience
• 74% improved self-esteem and household management

Looking Ahead

As Home-Start Cymru gears up to launch its new strategy, the charity remains focused on diversifying its volunteer base, expanding partnerships, and continuing its vital role in shaping early years policy in Wales.

Chief Executive Jayne Drummond closed the report with a heartfelt tribute:

“To every funder, volunteer, staff member, and family—thank you. You created this impact. With your support, we’ll ensure no family in Wales feels alone.”

To learn more about volunteering or supporting Home-Start Cymru, visit www.homestartcymru.org.uk

You can read the report here: