Interview with Elaine

Elaine

Elaine has been a volunteer for 5 years at Leicester branch. She is a medical secretary. 
 

Why did you join?

30 years ago, I picked up a book by Chad Varah, the founder of Samaritans. After reading it I knew I knew I wanted to be part of his organisation. But it wasn't until 25 years later that I actually joined.

What keys thing did you learn that helped you to answer calls?

I learnt the importance of listening without interrupting, without judging, without giving advice and without prejudice. I was also taught the importance of confidentiality which is fundamental to Samaritans.

Why do people call Samaritans?

Often the reason someone phones is apparent at the beginning of the conversation. Sometimes it isn't and it takes patience to build up a trust so that the caller will say why they have phoned. It may be trouble with a neighbour, death of someone close, financial difficulties or problems at work, school or home. Perhaps they are frightened of dying, or living, or they may be lonely or not able to cope with life. They may feel suicidal or have suicidal thoughts.

How do you feel when you answer the phone?

I still experience the same feeling of apprehension every time I am on duty and the telephone rings. I hope that I continue to do so. If I did not ask myself "did I give the best to that caller?" that will be the time for me to leave Samaritans.

What sort of calls do you get?

A call may last a few minutes or an hour or longer. The call may come from man, woman or child. We do get some hoax calls, and calls from people who think we are like the Citizens' Advice Bureau or a cheap chat-line. However, a genuine call is what makes it all worthwhile for me. Sometimes there is silence, sometimes I can hear quiet sobbing. I ask gentle, probing questions, fearful that I may say the wrong thing and the caller will hang up.
 
The caller has complete control of the call and I won't judge, counsel, advise or repeat what they say to me and they may end the call whenever they wish. I may never know who the caller is and it is doubtful that I will know how their life has turned out, but whoever you are, I'm glad you phoned and if you need to talk again there will always be someone here. 
 
Apply to volunteer online or call 08705 62 72 82 from the UK, or 1890 200 091 from the Republic Of Ireland.