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Volunteer sought to oversee vital work to maintain family contacts

The Exeter Southernhay Child Contact Centre is looking for a motivated person to be Co-ordinator of the Centre. The Centre was established Centre in 1989 - the first centre in the South West - and is accredited by the National Association of Child Contact Centres.

The Centre is open fortnightly on Saturdays from 10.00 to 4.00 throughout the year. It is based in Southernhay Hall in Southernhay East and is set out with a large variety of toys and games for children of all ages. The intention is to create a child-centred environment and to provide a safe, neutral place where children of separated families can meet and spend time with their non-resident parent or other family member. It is staffed by a team of volunteers who work on a rota basis.

Attendance is by referral, usually from solicitors but sometime from court advisors (CAFCASS) or Social Services. Sessions are usually for one or two hours but the Centre  also acts as a handover point for parents who are taking their children out.

There is no charge made for the service which is run on an entirely voluntary basis. Families make donations for their refreshments.

The Centre is looking for someone who has a genuine interest in this work and is able to devote about 6 – 8 hours per week to it. The successful applicant will be someone who can take the lead in running the Centre, work with solicitors and other referrers and carry out the necessary administration. The post is supported by a Management Committee, two assistant co-ordinators and a team of volunteers.

Anyone interested should call 07775 158 808 to find out more.

Exeter Southernhay Child Contact Centre is a project of Southernhay United Reformed Church. Registered Charity No: 1130547.