Be there for people who desperately need someone.
⚠️ We're updating the information on this page in relation to the Coronavirus outbreak so the advice on this page may change significantly as the situation continues to develop.
How can I help?
We really appreciate that you're looking to support us during this difficult time. Due to Covid-19 we have currently suspended face-to-face training, however, many branches are still recruiting virtually and we are piloting virtual training at the moment which will go live in a few weeks for a number of branches. Please continue to register your interest online below and your enquiry will be sent to your chosen branch and they will be in touch.
How are you keeping volunteers safe?
Samaritans is a critical service, needed now more than ever and in line with government advice we plan to keep our listening service open and will continue to operate it from branches wherever possible. Please be assured that the safety of our volunteers is of upmost importance and we will continue to monitor the situation. All our branches are applying strict guidelines with regard to hygiene standards and social distancing.
Can I volunteer from home?
Please note that at present we're not able to accommodate volunteering from home.
Can I start straight away?
All of our volunteers have to undergo a recruitment and training process and our volunteering is not something you can start immediately. If you're keen to get involved in a volunteering opportunity straight away, please get in touch with your local volunteer centre or visit do-it.org who'll be able to let you know what you can do locally.
Thank you for your support of Samaritans.
Volunteering for Samaritans
Giving some time to be a Samaritan means being there for people who desperately need someone. And that really matters.
Right now we need volunteers more than ever.
There are lots of ways you can volunteer for Samaritans. You could become a listening volunteer, helping us to answer calls and messages from people who need some support. And there are a range of other opportunities available too.
Our branches across the UK and Ireland are always looking for support with marketing, fundraising, or even helping out in one of our shops. It all depends on what you're good at and what you've got time for.
Now, I take quiet comfort in knowing that by answering the phone, I can help someone feel better about themselves.
Jamilia, Samaritans volunteer
The kind of people we're looking for
We’re just looking for people who want to help others, are tolerant and open-minded. You don’t have to have gone through particular life experiences or be a special kind of person. To be a volunteer in the listening role you must be over 18.
What you get out of being a volunteer
You’ll learn valuable new skills, make new friendships, and be part of an amazing group of people. But above all you’ll have the incredible satisfaction of knowing you’re helping people who are in despair.
Ways you can help Samaritans
Be there for people who need someone
As a listening volunteer you’ll answer calls and messages from people who really need someone to talk to. You’ll be based in one of 201 branches in the UK and Ireland.
Does this sound like you?
- You're interested in listening to people going through a tough time
- You're open-minded and non judgemental
- You're able to listen without telling people what to do
Enquire about becoming a listening volunteer
Find out more about becoming a Samaritans listening volunteer
Support Samaritans in other ways
There are lots of things you could do to support us – marketing our services, fundraising, organising events, providing IT support or helping out in one of our shops. It all depends what you want to do and what you’re good at.
Does this sound like you?
- You're good at working with other people
- You enjoy using your initiative
- You're organised
Enquire about becoming a support volunteer
Find out more about becoming a Samaritans support volunteer
I've learned so much about life and people. It's humbling and rewarding to be able to help in some small way by being there for people who need us.
Lynsey