Mariana, Parent Champion Volunteer

Mariana started volunteering as a Parent Champion in 2025. Parent Champions are parent/carer volunteers who give a few hours a week to talk to other parents about the local services and opportunities available to families. 

Volunteers share their experiences, skills, and knowledge with other parents and help to make a positive difference. There is no minimum number of hours, making the Parent Champion role flexible and adaptable. They also benefit from the training, mentoring, and networking opportunities that the programme offers, while gaining valuable skills and confidence.  

Mariana said: "I think this is a great opportunity to meet new people, to be useful to society and parents. Sometimes I have free time after work, and this is an opportunity to use it usefully and gain experience. I like being around people and the role is varied. When I volunteered at Dereham, it was a great opportunity to meet new children and create some interesting art for Easter. 

"Apart from giving something good to the world, there are a lot of benefits including getting a DBS check and various free courses and events.  I would definitely recommend it. I think everyone can find time to be useful for others. If you haven't done it before, don't be afraid because there are people who will always help and support you if you need anything."