Recruitment: FAQ
So you have taken the first step in accessing our web pages, below you will find the answers to the questions that we get asked the most.
What happens next?
Just ring the centre on 01246 - 270000, and tell the volunteer you would like information on being a Samaritan. One of the recruitment team will be in touch with you very quickly. We will send you an information pack, plus an invitation to come along our next Information Evening, or alternatively to make an appointment for an informal chat.
An Information Evening?
Yes, we regularly hold Information Evenings, where you will be shown a video and given a chance to talk to a serving volunteer, who will be able to answer any questions you may have.
Application forms will also be available
And after the Information Evening?
When you have filled in the application form, nominating 2 people who know you well to provide references, and returned the form to us, we will invite you to an interview.
A Selection Day sounds scary
Not at all. A selection day is just an informal get together where we get to
know you along with others, followed by an interview with two volunteers.
And then what?
If we are both happy to proceed you will start an initial training course
which will consist of 1 Sunday and 5 Wednesday evenings. During this initial training you will be thoroughly prepared for your role as a volunteer, and only when you are ready, to take your place on the phones.
Will I be on my own?
No, there are always two volunteers on duty at any one time, but to start with you will be assigned a mentor.
He/She will 'shadow' you for one month being there to offer you support and guidance. Only when you are confident and happy to go
'solo' will you be allowed to go alone.
You will work with your mentor once a month until you lose your probationary status, but your mentor will always be there on the end of the phone to offer you support and advice. There is also a Leader system in operation for every shift, so you will have support whenever you need it.
You mentioned being a 'probationer'
Yes, you will be called a probationer for approximately six months, and then you will lose your probationer status and become a full member of the Branch.
Do you only take phone calls?
No, we also have callers coming to the centre, we call these face to face callers because we are able to talk to them in person. Some people find it easier to talk to someone in the flesh rather than on the end of the phone. We also respond to emails
and text messaging from people in distress who prefer to use this method of communication.
Ok, so what do you expect from me?
We expect a commitment to our callers and to the Branch. Time wise we expect our volunteers to do
18 hours including an overnight each month.
The shift times will all be explained at the Information Evening, but we do operate a flexible shift system, which makes it easier to plan around your other commitments.
Do I need any experience?
No, we don't expect you to be experienced, just a good listener and not be judgmental.
What are the volunteers like?
Just ordinary people who have a desire to help others. We come from all kinds of backgrounds, and ages, no one is excluded, and we operate an Equal Opportunities policy. See Our
Diversity and Equality Policy
Where is the Branch ?
2 Rose Hill, Chesterfield S40 1LW - near the Town Hall in Chesterfield :
Chesterfield Samaritans Map (opens in a new window)
I am unemployed at the moment, will that make a difference?
Absolutely not, you will be most welcome to apply to join us.
If necessary you will be able to claim out of pocket expenses.
What will I get out of it?
A lot. You will be joining a great bunch of people. You will make lots of new friends, and we hope you will enjoy being a full member of the Branch by joining in our social events etc.
You will also feel you are doing something worthwhile, and get a great satisfaction from knowing you have helped another person going through a bad time.
I've had quite a bit of trouble myself - will you still accept me?
Your own experience may have increased your sympathy and compassion - but it may have left you too vulnerable to take on other people's troubles. It depends on how you coped with your problems, what effect they had on you, and particularly whether you have successfully moved on from major life issues.
Do you accept everyone who applies to join?
No - and this doesn't mean that if we don't accept you that we think you're a second class citizen. It may be that your talents are not appropriate to Samaritans, or the timing is not right for you at present. We do not accept serving Police Officers, due to a conflict of interest.
