Parent Village Volunteer

At the Parent Village, we provide free, baby and toddler-friendly sessions where parents can engage one-on-one or in groups with local organisations and specialists. These include breastfeeding support, weaning, potty training, sleep consultations, fussy eating advice, baby massage, reflexology and postnatal fitness. We also offer access to emotional and psychological support around the transition to parenthood.

The project makes a real difference by helping families especially those on low incomes to feel supported, connected and confident. Alongside practical advice, we run enriching music and sensory sessions to boost children’s development and confidence, and creative storytelling delivered with Watermill Theatre and Corn Exchange to encourage early engagement with the arts. Affordable paediatric first aid training is also provided for parents, grandparents and carers. 

We are always looking for volunteers to help make sure these sessions are well run and welcoming. Volunteers help with activities and childcare, give parents a listening ear and support them where needed. Their friendly presence ensures the space feels warm, inclusive and non-judgemental.

About Educafe CIC

Educafe is a community hub dedicated to uniting diverse West Berkshire communities. Based out of Newbury Library, we foster social inclusion, reduce isolation, and improve wellbeing through free weekly drop-in services, English language learning, and family support. We provide a warm, welcoming space where connection, confidence, and community can grow.

What skills do I need?

• Warmth and Empathy: A naturally kind, gentle, and non-judgmental approach to help new parents, carers, and babies feel safe and at ease.

• Inclusivity and Respect: A strong commitment to welcoming diverse families, including new arrivals, migrant communities, non-English speakers, and parents facing isolation.

• Active Listening: The ability to chat comfortably, remember names or familiar faces, and gently connect isolated parents with peers or local resources.

• Reliability and Trustworthiness: Consistency in showing up and adhering to team boundaries and safeguarding guidelines.

• Lived Experience: Personal understanding of early parenthood, family transitions, or navigating local family support systems.

• Specialist Backgrounds (Optional): Prior background in areas like early years education, SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) support, community hosting, or translation/ESOL support can be a strong asset depending on the specific role.

• Teamwork: The capacity to collaborate smoothly with the Educafe project managers, library staff, and partner organisations like Home-Start

When is this role available?

	Morning	Afternoon	Evening
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday

Details

Educafe's community cafe takes place every Wednesday in term time from 11-2pm.

Where does this role take place?