Listening Volunteer (CSVA)

We are looking to build our team of listening volunteers who provide confidential emotional support, by phone and email, to callers in distress and despair.

We are a close-knit team who volunteer in central Walton-on-Thames, working as part of the nationwide Samaritans charity. If you are an empathetic, non-judgemental person with basic computer skills, and can attend a 3-4 hour shift each week (after training has been completed), this could be for you.

We train approximately 30 volunteers each year after a selection process.

What skills do I need?

· Able to maintain confidentiality

· Able to listen actively without prejudice or judgement

· Able to communicate clearly with callers and other volunteers

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

· Able to recognise the need for support in yourself and others, and to seek or provide support where necessary

· Aware of your own emotional triggers, and able to cope with your own feelings

· Willingness to accept of Samaritan values

· Basic computer skills