Volunteer

Could you be a volunteer?

Apply to volunteer online or call 08705 62 72 82 from the UK, or 1890 200 091 from the Republic Of Ireland.

Thank you. I was on a metaphorical cliff-edge tonight. Everything had got on top of me, A difficult relationship with my Mum, a horrible break-up with my partner, a stressful time at work, self-harm and a weird relationship with a new man ... I didn’t know where else to turn tonight, and was afraid that I would either harm myself again, or worse. Talking to someone there has calmed me down and I don’t feel so alone now. You don’t know what this has meant to me. Thank you.

Samaritans caller

We wouldn't be here if it wasn't for volunteers. Your local branch of Samaritans is 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 over 18.

Many branches also need professional advice from time to time. If you have expertise in accountancy, administration, construction and maintenance, the law, psychiatry or treasury, you might be able to help. Some branches also have charity shops that you might be able to manage or help with shifts.

What sort of people become volunteers?

Samaritans volunteers need to be able to listen. They are not professional counsellors. They can also:

• question gently, tactfully - without intruding
• encourage people to tell their own story in their own time and space
• refrain from offering advice and instead offer confidential emotional support
• always try to see the other point of view, regardless of their own religious or political beliefs

Apply to volunteer online or call +44 (0)8705 62 72 82 from the UK or Ireland.

 

"Listening to someone who is perhaps depressed, worried, frightened and / or suicidal and who doesn't know where to turn to, is perhaps the most valuable thing we can do for a fellow human being."

Elaine, volunteer, Leicester branch

"I have met some amazing people at Samaritans. They're not people I would normally have met in my day to day life and they're from really different backgrounds but I've made some firm friends. I look forward to going in for each duty. I think I'm more open to people than I was before too."

Elizabeth, volunteer, Darlington branch

 

"The biggest thing I've learned about is how to communicate better. I notice a lot more when people aren't listening to what's being said to them. Offering someone support is more than just listening passively, it's about actively enabling them to explore options and to find a way forward."

Imran, volunteer, London branch

What training and support would I get?

To get everyone fully prepared for a role as a Samaritans volunteer, there’s a series of about 8 preparation sessions to learn about active listening, all held in your local branch over weekends or evenings. You’ll take part in skills practice exercises and group discussions with a group of people who will also act as informal back-up for you when you become a volunteer.

"The training I received was brilliant. On my first shift I picked up the phone and the woman on the other end sounded exactly like my trainer had."

John, Samaritans volunteer

When you are answering the phones, replying to emails or texts or meeting people face-to-face, there will always be an experienced volunteer on hand to support you. Volunteers are never left on their own.

 

What commitment would I need to give?

The hours of shifts do vary quite a lot from branch to branch. But typically, once you are trained you will be asked to do a shift of 3 to 4 hours a week with 1 overnight shift a month.

 

What it is like working as a Samaritan? Read our diary of a volunteer to find out more