Time to give

Safe Families is a charity that works with local authorities around the UK, supporting families, children and care leavers by matching them with volunteers who can lend a hand. Many volunteers come from local churches and older volunteers are very welcome. Sophie Tresidder from Safe Families shared with us the inspirational story of Christian couple Ray and Sue who have found volunteering in their retirement to be richly rewarding

Ray and Sue then started supporting families straight away and are now approaching four years as volunteers. During this time, they have supported families in many different ways, from building fences to hosting a one-year-old at weekends. 

Through faithfully praying and involving their church family, they've seen God provide the right resources time and time again, whether that's been cabin beds, fences, or Christmas decorations.

They haven't been afraid to be used by God wherever He has placed them. Sue says, "You just have to be able, willing, and reliable."

Ray and Sue are a remarkable example of individuals stepping out in faith to love and serve those around them – no matter their age. 

One mum they have supported is Tam. Tam had two young children when she needed to move into temporary accommodation for her and the children's safety. Tam grew up in care and had no support network around her, but she desperately wanted to do the best for her children.

Safe Families were able to put five volunteers, including Ray and Sue, around Tam over 18 months. They all played different roles in helping her gain the confidence she needed to start to thrive.

Ray and Sue helped Tam find a home and taught her how to look after the garden – they even built a shed together.

Their age has only further helped how they've been able to support. Being retired, they've had more time to offer, and they've been able to share the wisdom they have gained over the years while getting alongside Tam. They've been able to give the support of parents or grandparents that was lacking and so desperately needed. 

Tam says, "They were so supportive. I couldn't ask for more. When you are in a bad place they help make it positive, so you're not on your own."

Before volunteering with Safe Families, Ray and Sue had some concerns about their age. “We questioned whether they would be too old to help,” says Sue. “We thought that maybe young mums would only want other young mums to support them.”

Wonderfully, they have seen the opposite happen. Ray and Sue play 'grandparent' roles to the children. They’ve also been able to share some of the practical wisdom and advice they have gained over the years.

Ray and Sue see the need for Safe Families everywhere and have seen how transformative relationships are in helping prevent desperate isolation. Sue says, “There really is no age limit, you just work within your capabilities.”

Volunteering has not always been easy. One challenge they’ve faced is making plans and then finding the family are not there at the arranged time. They've learnt to be patient and humble and to keep the perspective of ensuring what they’ve committed to happens.

Ray and Sue have found their volunteering experience extremely rewarding through the relationships they've built and the friendships that have followed. 

Could you volunteer with Safe Families?

Volunteers are essential to the care and support Safe Families provides throughout the UK.

You could make a big difference in the lives of families who are isolated and overwhelmed.

There are three main volunteering opportunities with Safe Families: Family Friend, Host Families, or Resource Friend. Responsibilities range from coming alongside and supporting a family directly, opening your home to hosting children, or giving time and skills to help a family. 

If you are interested in getting involved, Safe Families would love to hear from you. To find out more and to sign up as a volunteer visit: www.safefamilies.uk/volunteer