We’re in the midst of a mental health crisis and demand for our listening service is strong.
We urgently need volunteers from all walks of life to support community members with low-level mental health problems. The shortage of male volunteers is particularly acute – many of our male service users prefer to talk to another man, and we are not currently able to meet this need for everyone.
What would you do as a listening volunteer?
Your role will let service users talk through their feelings and experiences without judging or telling them what to do. So the key qualities we look for in our volunteers are compassion and a non-judgemental attitude.
Are sessions face to face?
Our service is being delivered over the phone, so it doesn’t matter where you live.
How much time will I need to give?
After training, we ask for a minimum of 1 hour a week.
What support and training will I receive?
You will receive full training from a third-party specialist organisation called Acorn and ongoing support from Bethel employees as well as access to a 24/7 helpline. Our training sessions occur via Zoom and are usually held on two consecutive mornings, (10am to 12.30pm). Therefore, you will need to attend both sessions.
How do I apply?
Fill in an online application form. You will then be invited to attend an online interview and if successful, training will follow soon afterwards. If you’re interested in finding out more about what it’s actually like to be a volunteer listener, you can read an interview with one of our volunteers.
Contact details
If you have any questions, please get in touch with Calis, our Volunteer Co-ordinator, on 0777 668 6855 or email calis@bethelnetwork.org.uk. Calis is part-time and works Tuesday to Thursday.
