This research explored the roles and consequences of volunteers delivering interventions supporting parents during pregnancy and their infant’s early years to understand the suitability of the approach which is crucial for the success and sustainability of these important services.
Existing research was mapped highlighting that volunteers are responsible for delivering a variety of early years interventions themselves often involving peer and emotional support. The views of volunteers, staff and commissioners were then explored to understand if and how volunteer delivery models can impact on the volunteers, organisation and wider community. Volunteers can benefit through professional and personal development opportunities which can generate wider value to the community. However, volunteer models require significant resources and funding to support the management and development of volunteers. Those designing and funding these services should consider volunteer models when it can benefit both families and volunteers and where organisations have the resources to support both.
