Listening Volunteer

  • VO40197


Description

With over 200 branches and 18,000 volunteers in UK and ROI, Samaritans is volunteer led. The Selkirk Branch has around 35 Listening Volunteers and some Support Volunteers. Thorough training is given to all trainees, and a commitment of 3 hours per week is required by all Listening Volunteers. All Listening Volunteers support callers via telephone, email and SMS texting, with an average of over 5,000 branch contacts per year.
Annual on going training is provided, with additional opportunities to attend national and regional Conferences.
No experience is required, but an aptitude to listen is helpful.

Organisation aims and objectives

To offer, in confidence, emotional support to anyone going through a crisis in their life by telephone, face to face contact or e-mail. To support and befriend those in danger of taking their own life. To be available 24 hours, 7days a week.

Availability

Mon

Tue

Wed

Thu

Fri

Sat

Sun

Morning
Afternoon
Evening

3 hours per week minimum commitment, plus one overnight shift every 4 - 6 weeks.

Frequency and commitment details

3 hours per week minimum commitment, plus one overnight shift every 4 - 6 weeks.

Restrictions

Experience required: No experience necessary, but an aptitude to listen and empathise would help
Travel details: Selkirk. Travelling expenses are reimbursed at 28p per mile. We encourage car-sharing.
Minimum age: 18

Support

Expenses paid: Yes
Expenses details: Mileage is reimbursed at 28 p per mile every month. Public transport costs are paid every month.
Training details: Casual information Evening with short DVD and talk followed by formal Selection Evening with interview. Training evenings once a week for 6 weeks with one-to-one training. Trainee given Mentor to help/guide until fully trained.
Support: Named Contact For Volunteer,
Wheelchair Access/Disabled Access Toilet