Home-Start schemes have the opportunity to accredit their preparation course and ongoing training. In some schemes, volunteers have the opportunity to have their coursework accredited to National Vocational Qualifications (a national system for competency-based qualification) Levels 1 and 2. No additional information on the accreditation process was provided.
Implementing Home-Start
Model implementation summary last updated: 2015
The information in this implementation report reflects feedback, if provided, from this model’s developer as of the above date. The description of the implementation of the model(s) here may differ from how the model(s) was implemented in the manuscripts reviewed to determine this model’s evidence of effectiveness. Inclusion in the implementation report does not mean the practices described meet the HHS criteria for evidence of effectiveness. Please see the Effectiveness button on the left for more information about any research on the effectiveness of the model, including any version(s) of the model with effectiveness research. Versions of the model that are described in the Adaptations and enhancements section of this implementation report may include (1) versions that were identified by the model’s developer and (2) versions that have been implemented by researchers and have manuscripts that HomVEE rated high or moderate, but that are not supported by the model’s developer.
Training to support implementation
Pre-service staff training
All new scheme staff attend a residential induction course.
All volunteer trustees undergo an induction program and ongoing training in areas such as team building, communication, strategic planning, confidentiality issues, equal opportunities, health and safety, and child protection. Specialist training is also available to trustees.
Volunteer home visitors attend a free, 40-hour volunteer preparation course with other new volunteers before meeting their first family. Volunteers can gain formal accreditation for their Home-Start training.
In-service staff training
Ongoing training for volunteer home visitors is mandatory. In addition, the following formal qualifications or courses are available to scheme staff, along with guidance to select the most suitable qualification:
- National Vocational Qualifications in management of volunteers
- Teacher training qualifications
- Parenting Program
Staff may also attend courses on other relevant topics.
Training materials
Home-Start UK and local Home-Starts provide training materials on topics including safeguarding and child protection, attachment and parenting skills, mental illness, and bereavement.
Technical assistance
Home-Start programs in the UK are supported by Home-Start UK. Programs established in other countries are typically supported by their own national association if one has been formed. The national associations provide support, including training for staff, volunteers, and trustees; information and guidance on governance; advice on legal and human resources issues; and help with fund-raising and communications. The national associations network with one another and offer support and advice.
Implementation notes
The information contained on this page was last updated in July 2015. Recommended further reading lists the sources for this information. In addition, the information contained in this profile was reviewed for accuracy by Home-Start UK in April 2015. HomVEE reserves the right to edit the profile for clarity and consistency.