Rapha Listening Service

If you or someone you know is in need of a listening ear, then get in touch

Our service is non-judgemental, confidential, compassionate and all about you.

  • Anyone aged 18 and over can request a listener through our free service
  • Our listeners are fully trained and available seven days a week
  • We are available to chat via phone, video conferencing or in person
  • Clients can access up to 9 listening sessions, although more can be agreed upon in exceptional circumstances
  • Each listening session may last up to 45 minutes, providing clients time to discuss their concerns in a confidential and discrete setting.
Request a listener

What does the word ‘Rapha’ mean?

Rapha means healing – which can include healing the mind as well as the body.

 

Volunteer as a listener

Group Well-being Session

Join our free monthly group session on Friday, 29 August 2025 to build confidence, reduce stress and connect with others in a safe, non-judgemental space. Everyone aged 18+ is welcome. 

Who is it for?

• Anyone looking for a listening, supportive environment
• New or expectant parents, carers, students and community members

What to expect:

• Gentle guided activities led by trained Rapha Listeners
• Practical tools for speaking up and managing stress
• Time to share stories (only if you want to) and meet others
• Light refreshments

Where & cost:

•Bethel Office
• Free to attend

How to register:

Please complete the form on this page. We’ll confirm your place within 3 working days.

 

As a Doula Champion, you might accompany expectant mothers to prenatal appointments, provide birthing support if needed, help new mums with newborn care and breastfeeding, and ensure they attend their 6-week postnatal checks. You become a trusted companion and advocate for mothers who might otherwise be alone or uncertain.

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You will receive accredited doula training from experienced professionals (led by an ex-NHS midwife) , covering birth coaching, maternal health, and safeguarding. By the end, you’ll be equipped with the skills and
confidence to support women one-on-one.

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This pathway is ideal if you are interested in maternity care or midwifery. It offers invaluable hands-on experience – from attending births (optionally) to postpartum support – giving you a taste of a career in maternal health. Many Doula Champions use this experience as a springboard into NHS roles, midwifery training, or paid doula work in the future.

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Key activities: You will provide one-to-one support through active listening sessions – this could be over the phone, via video call, or in person. You let people share their feelings, and you offer empathy and guidance towards further help if needed (such as suggesting community services). Often, just being there to listen can make a huge difference.

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Training provided: You will undergo intensive training in reflective listening and mental health first response. Our training (often delivered via Zoom over a series of sessions) will teach you how to handle sensitive conversations, maintain confidentiality, and know your boundaries . By completion, you’ll be a certified listening volunteer with skills applicable to counseling or psychology fields.

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Emphasize volunteer scope: Rapha Champions commit to at least an hour per week of listening support for a client after training , which can often be arranged flexibly. You might have regular weekly calls with a client for a period of time. There are also opportunities to facilitate group sessions or community support groups as you grow in experience.

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Benefits and career pathways: This pathway is perfect if you’re interested in mental health, counseling, or social work. The experience you gain – in communication, empathy, and understanding mental health – is highly relevant to careers in counseling, psychotherapy, mental health nursing, or community support roles. Rapha Champions have a pathway to progress into formal counseling courses or mental health roles in the NHS or voluntary sector.” (For example, mention “You could go on to become a paid listening service coordinator or pursue qualifications in therapy – the programme can open these doors.

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