A TEENAGE volunteer has won a regional award in recognition of her exceptional support for a national charity.
Barnardo’s has named Jessica Malara from Rugby as its Young Volunteer of the Year for the Midlands and South West.
Jessica, 19, cycles several miles three times a week to lend a hand at the charity’s Claremont Children and Family Centre, where she helps with parent and toddler groups, baby and toddler sessions, and a clothes bank.
She received her award from Barnardo’s regional director Hugh Sherriffe.
She said: “I’m excited about winning this award.
“I chose Barnardo’s because I wanted to work with children. I enjoy helping the staff to set up the sessions and supporting the children with their play.
“Volunteering has given me confidence as I meet new people all the time and I’ve been given responsibilities during the sessions.”
Barnardo’s volunteer co-ordinator Gillian Stubbings said Jessica was shy at first, but became much more confident as a result of contact with professionals, parents and other volunteers.
She said: “Once she gets to know people her happy, sunny personality shines through.
“Jessica has supported us throughout the whole of the academic year and even during the summer holidays.
“She is a member of the clothes bank team which sorts the bags of donations, and she also supports our parent and toddler group and the baby and toddler sessions by arranging resources and welcoming parents.”
Claremont Children and Family Centre is managed by Barnardo’s on behalf of Warwickshire County Council.
Together with similar services at Broughton Leigh and Long Lawford, it provides free support and advice to local parents and carers with under-5s, including parenting programmes, breastfeeding support, baby groups and links to local health services, education, employment and training.
Call 01788 579488 for more information.
Last year Barnardo’s supported around 300,000 children, young people, parents and carers. Visit www.barnardos.org.uk for more information.
