Volunteer Spotlight: The Heart of Growbaby
Sue, Margaret & Liz, just three of our wonderful Growbaby Volunteers
Behind every welcoming smile, carefully folded babygrow, and reassuring cup of tea at Growbaby is a team of incredible volunteers who give their time, energy, and compassion each week. They are the heartbeat of the project, creating a space where families feel seen, supported, and valued.
Growbaby is more than a place to collect essentials. It’s a warm, family-friendly space where parents and carers can relax, enjoy refreshments and cake, and browse our boutique, stocked with quality pre-loved and new clothing, toiletries, and equipment. With toys for little ones and befrienders ready to chat, every session is designed to offer dignity, choice, and care.
We spoke to three of our wonderful volunteers: Liz, Sue, and Margaret, about what Growbaby means to them.
“A privilege to serve”
Sue shared how meaningful it is to see the impact Growbaby has from the very first moment families arrive:
“It’s a privilege to be able to serve the community. Just seeing the reaction from the parents and care-givers, when they first come down the stairs and see the boutique. Their smiles when they realise they’re able to choose the items they need themselves, giving them that dignity and empowerment.”
That sense of choice and dignity is at the heart of everything Growbaby does. Families are not handed a bag, they are welcomed into a space where they can select what works best for them and their children.
“Such a lovely start to my week”
For Liz, volunteering is a joyful and life-giving way to begin each week:
“Such a pleasure and a privilege. I love getting to see the children every week and seeing their little faces. And this wouldn't be possible without the generosity of the donors, who are driven by their own compassion also. It really is such a wonderful place to volunteer. It’s such a lovely start to my week!”
Liz’s words highlight something special about Growbaby, it’s not only a blessing to the families who come, but also to those who serve. The kindness of donors, volunteers, and guests all weaves together to create a truly caring community.
“They feel the love”
Margaret spoke about the transformation she sees in parents and carers during a session:
“I just love it. You can see such a positive difference in the parents and carers, in how they are when they first come in, to when they leave, they are uplifted. They feel the love, and being able to give them the love that some of them are not used to receiving is a privilege.”
Sometimes the most powerful support isn’t just practical, it’s emotional. A warm welcome, a listening ear, and a safe space can make all the difference.
A team that makes it possible
Growbaby Project Co-ordinator Amber emphasises just how vital volunteers are:
“Here in Growbaby we work hard to ensure our sessions are welcoming and provide a safe, inclusive space for all our guests and their children. We couldn't provide any of this without our amazing team of volunteers.”
Every toy set out, every item sorted, every cup of tea poured, and every conversation shared helps create an environment where families feel valued and supported.
Could you be part of the story?
Our volunteers bring compassion, joy, and dignity to families every single week. If you’ve ever wondered about getting involved, Growbaby is a place where small acts of kindness make a big difference. We are currently looking for volunteers to help with boutique restocking on Monday afternoons, a practical but vital role that helps keep our space welcoming and well-prepared for families.
Because at the end of the day, Growbaby isn’t just about baby clothes and equipment, it’s about people, community, and love in action at Restore Northampton.
