VIP visit
After the group, we went out for lunch and discussed some of the challenges the branch faced. A key challenge is around recruiting and retaining volunteers in order to keep branch activities running. The branch is currently working with NCT Head Office on a campaign to recruit new volunteers and we provided Nick some suggestions about recognition for volunteers beyond the NCT Stars Awards, such as regular forms of appreciation for all volunteers and recognition for those who have volunteered for long periods of time.
Some of the team also talked about their experiences of the antenatal training and we discussed ways in which the branch could be more connected to the parents attending the antenatal classes. Currently we attend one class per course to provide an overview to the branch, but there are minimal opportunities to follow up with people after the classes.
We also talked about the recent press articles about the NCT following the resignation of NCT President, Seána Talbot, and some of the challenges we have encountered in terms of NCT policy and procedure.
We really appreciated the time that Nick spent with us and that we were able to speak openly about our challenges. Nick emphasised that the work we are doing for the branch is appreciated by all.
CEO of NCT, Nick Wilkie has been visiting NCT branches to talk to volunteers about their successes and challenges and to find out more about the branches. We were delighted to welcome him to our Little Monkeys group on Friday 24 May. Nick spoke with several parents at the group and commented that it was inspiring to hear first-hand how we are supporting new parents and the importance of regular groups to help parents to socialise, especially in light of NCT campaigns like the Hidden Half.