Listening Volunteers

To provide confidential emotional support for people experiencing feelings of distress or despair, including those which may lead to suicide. To provide such support by telephone and web-based instant messaging, and by whatever other means of communication may be adopted by Samaritans. All listening would be delivered from our Listening Centre in London Road, alongside other trained volunteers.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• To provide confidential emotional support as above

• To uphold Samaritans Mission, Vision & Values & Policies & Procedures

• To complete regular volunteering duties, including overnight duties, as agreed

• To support fellow Samaritan volunteers during shared duties

• To debrief with duty Leader after each shift

• To liaise with duty Leader in respect of difficult or emergency situations or when in doubt

• To follow instructions given by duty Leader or Director

• To maintain caller log sheets and/or systems as required by the branch • To undertake continuous development training 

Commitment: to be arranged with the branch. As a guide, the typical arrangement is 3 hours per week including a night duty at least once every four weeks. Volunteers are welcome to focus on night hours if that is their preference. 

LOCATION, TRAVEL & EXPENSES

• Based at the branch

• All out of pocket expenses related to the role will be reimbursed in line with Branch Expenses Policy

• Free car parking provided by neighbouring supermarket, subject to conditions 

RECRUITMENT AND SELECTION PROCESS

• Completion of a Samaritans application form

• Attendance and successful selection at an interview

• The offer of a listening volunteer position is conditional on the completion of;

                  o Background checks; including references and enhanced criminal records check

                    o Completion of initial CORE training

                   o Period of mentoring and Embedding

• Successful completion of a probationary period before becoming a full branch volunteer 

Skills

QUALITIES & EXPERIENCE

• Ability to maintain confidentiality at all times

• To be able to actively listen without prejudice

• To be able to communicate clearly with callers and branch volunteers

• Ability to deal sensitively with all callers, including vulnerable people, those with mental health issues and children, as necessary

• Able to follow procedures and maintain systems

• Ability to recognise the need for support (in themselves and others) and to seek or provide support where necessary

• Awareness of own emotional triggers and can cope with own feelings

• Demonstrate an understanding and acceptance of Samaritans values

• Listening volunteers should be 18 or over upon completion of their training.