A Winchester woman, who was a charity volunteer for 12 years, has retired from the role.

April Chidgey was a volunteer and trustee with Home-Start in Winchester, a role she relinquished at the charity's recent Annual General Meeting.

April was introduced to Home-Start through a friend in Alresford and quickly joined the training programme to become a home visiting volunteer.

As a former probation officer and Family Court advisor she was used to working with families facing a difficult time.

April said: “My role involved working with families who were breaking up where there were disputes about the arrangements for children. I’d visit their homes and talk or play with the children as well as the parents.

“As Home-Start volunteers we work alongside the families we are supporting. We become friends and confidantes. It’s not our place to impose on people and tell them what they should do but we also need to role model appropriate behaviour and set boundaries.

“That’s where the training programme is so invaluable and the ongoing professional support from the local Home-Start staff team.

“The best bit about being a volunteer is seeing the parent’s grow and become more confident in their role.

“By giving parents time and support we can help them work out a way of looking after their children that works for them and gives the children better opportunities.”

April has kept in touch with all the families she has supported. One mother she supported said: “April was absolutely everything I needed her to be when I needed someone the most. She gave up her time, showed compassion, gave me friendship and had knowledge and understanding.

“She helped me rebuild my life after things came tumbling down, she gave me the support and strength I needed to get through one of the hardest times in my life.”

After becoming a volunteer, April joined the board as a trustee.

April said: “The trustees have a vital role in setting the strategic direction of the charity and ensuring there is sufficient funding.

“I’ve loved being part of Home-Start and I’m not going away because I’ll still be helping with events and fundraising. But it’s time to make way for some younger people.”