How to join Basingstoke Samaritans

If you are interested in joining us as either a listening or support volunteer then the first step is to attend one of our information events. These are all held at our branch (details for 2011 at the bottom of this page). Please come along even if you aren't sure if this is for you – that's why we hold these events – so you can find out a little more about us and meet some of our volunteers.
We are always looking for people with the ability to listen, without passing judgement. You don't need formal qualifications or previous experience, but a natural ability to listen and remain open-minded is essential. You must be at least 18.

If you volunteer as a ‘listener’ you’ll develop the confidence and precious know-how to turn your natural instinct to want to help someone in difficulty into positive, sometimes life-changing support by phone, email and face to face as well.

If you have specialist skills such as publicity or fundraising and would like to help without acting as a listening volunteer, then you might want to join us as a Support Volunteer.
Whatever your role, you will be thoroughly trained and supported throughout. Volunteers are never left on their own.

The first step for potential volunteers is to attend one of our Information events which are held regularly at our branch in Essex Road. These are an opportunity for you to find out more about what we do – and there is no commitment at this stage!

After coming along to an information meeting and finding out a bit more of what we do (and what we don't) you may want to attend a Selection Day. This is a whole day full of discussions, information and listening exercises designed to find out if we are suitable for you and if you are suitable for us. If so then you may decide to carry on and train with us to become a Samaritan.

You can also find out more about being a volunteer at the national Samaritans website. You can also Apply to volunteer online, or call 08705 62 72 82.

Information Days 2011
All held at our branch at 5 Essex Road, RG21 7TA – How to find us

• Thursday 6th January 7.30 – 8.30 pm
• Saturday 22nd January 11 am - noon
• Thursday 10th March 7.30 – 8.30 pm
• Thursday 7th April 7.30 – 8.30 pm
• Thursday 19th May 7.30 – 8.30 pm
• Thursday 9th June 7.30 – 8.30 pm
• Thursday 7th July 7.30 – 8.30 pm
• Thursday 11th August 7.30 – 8.30 pm
• Saturday 20th August 11 am - noon
• Thursday 13th October 7.30 – 8.30 pm
• Thursday 24th November 7.30 – 8.30 pm