Best Start in Life Family Hubs – Play Space Friendly Face

Join Us as a Play Space, Friendly Face Volunteer!

Make a difference. Build connections. Support families across Northumberland.

Are you someone who enjoys meeting new people, creating welcoming spaces, and helping families feel supported? Our Best Start in Life Family Hubs are looking for friendly, enthusiastic volunteers to join us as Play Space, Friendly Face Volunteers — and you could be the perfect fit!

Across Northumberland, our Family Hubs provide safe, vibrant spaces where children can play, explore, and learn, and where parents and carers can meet others, access support, and feel part of a community. Our Play Spaces are at the heart of that mission — and volunteers help bring them to life.

Why This Role Matters

Families coming into a hub may be new to the area, looking for support, or simply hoping for a friendly face — and our volunteers are often the first person they meet. Your presence helps build trust, comfort, and a sense of belonging. By giving just a little of your time, you’ll be helping to strengthen communities, reduce isolation, and ensure that every family who walks through the door feels valued and welcome.

Who We’re Looking For

You don’t need qualifications — just kindness and enthusiasm. If you:

• Are welcoming, approachable, and non-judgemental
• Enjoy spending time with families and young children
• Have good listening and communication skills
• Can work as part of a team
• Are flexible and open to helping where needed
• Are aged 18 or over

…then we’d love to hear from you!

Whether you’re gaining experience, returning to work, wanting to give back, or simply looking for something meaningful to do — this role could be ideal.

Training & Support

We’ll make sure you feel confident and supported. Volunteers receive:

• A full induction to the role
• Online training through the council’s learning platform
• Key courses covering Safeguarding, Health & Safety, Professional Boundaries, and more
• Ongoing supervision and support from Family Hub staff
• An ID badge, travel expense reimbursement, and any equipment needed

You’ll also complete an Enhanced DBS check, paid for by us.

What You’ll Gain

Volunteering with us is a chance to grow personally and professionally. You can expect:

• Increased confidence and valuable transferable skills
• Experience in family support, community work, and early years environments
• Opportunities for further training and development
• A pathway toward future work or study
• The satisfaction of making a real difference in your community
• The chance to meet new people and be part of something rewarding

When & Where

This role is flexible and can fit around your other commitments. Most sessions run during Family Hub opening hours (Monday–Friday), with occasional opportunities to support special events in evenings or weekends.