Support families in Edinburgh to overcome challenges and build more stable, connected lives. As a Family Supporter, you will provide regular, one-to-one support that empowers families to set goals and make positive changes.


You will be paired with a parent or family and meet regularly, usually once a week, either in their home or within the local community. Your role is to build a trusted relationship and offer consistent emotional, social and practical support.

Families choose the goals they want to work towards, and you will support them on that journey. This could include reducing isolation, building routines, improving health and wellbeing, or developing budgeting and independent living skills.

You will help families take small, achievable steps towards positive change, with support from your project team throughout. By offering your time and encouragement, you can make a lasting difference in a family’s life.

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  • Please note this role is for volunteers aged 18+
  • Able and willing to commit to supporting the family on a regular basis, normally once per week, for a minimum of 6 months
  • Willing to complete our recruitment and training process which includes character references and a criminal record check
  • Be dedicated and patient, not be disappointed if there are no big changes straight away.
  • Be caring and friendly, and most importantly, be a good listener
  • Have an interest in helping people, both parents and children

  • Provide 1:1 social, emotional and practical support to a parent or family in Edinburgh
  • Spending time with the parent or family regularly, normally a few hours per week or fortnight, and building a positive, empowering and trusting relationship based on mutual respect
  • Support family members with their goals, providing help and guidance and being a friendly face and listening ear
  • Activities varies depending on the individual relationship and family goals, however full support and training will be provided

  • Patient
  • Positive, Compassionate and Caring
  • Non-judgmental
  • Personable – able to relate to parents and families

As a volunteer, you will receive:

  • Consistent help and support throughout your volunteering experience
  • All induction and ongoing training
  • All incurred volunteer expenses, including travel costs
  • The opportunity to make a difference and share your experience and skills
  • The chance to meet new people, and take part in a flexible volunteering role

Activities that you take part in really does depend on the individual, but we will support you as a Family Supporter every step of the way. You will be matched with a parent/family based on shared interests and your experience, skills, and preferences. Volunteering Matters will be on hand to provide all relevant training, resources, and support, during your volunteering experience.

Family Supporters Edinburgh offers practical and emotional support to families across the South East, South West, North West and North East localities of Edinburgh, empowering them to face a range of…

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The RS Macdonald Charitable Trust

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