Are you someone who listens with empathy and patience? Gloucester and District Samaritans is looking for dedicated listening volunteers to provide essential support to people in crisis throughout Gloucestershire.
As a listening volunteer, you play a crucial role in offering a compassionate ear to those reaching out during their most vulnerable moments. By simply listening and understanding, you can help transform lives and provide comfort when it’s needed most.
Volunteering a few hours each week can create a significant impact. You don’t need prior experience — full, professional training will equip you with the skills to handle a wide range of conversations with callers from diverse backgrounds.
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The role is deeply rewarding; many volunteers describe it as a privilege to be the person others confide in during tough times. You’ll develop valuable life skills, including improved empathy, active listening, and confidence in navigating difficult conversations—skills that benefit both your personal and professional life.
One newly trained volunteer shared, “People might expect the role to be emotionally draining, but it’s incredibly fulfilling due to the comprehensive training and the supportive community at Gloucester Samaritans.”
Each call is unique, filled with different stories and challenges. You are never alone—our branches foster a supportive, friendly environment, ensuring volunteers have the help they need.
You can choose to provide support via phone or email, and take breaks between calls if you wish. Most volunteers commit to shifts of about 3 to 4 hours weekly, with night shifts being especially impactful as this is when many callers need help the most. Night shifts are usually 4 hours and volunteers are reimbursed for travel to ensure safe journeys home.
Samaritans welcomes applications from people of all backgrounds aged 18 and over. There are no prerequisites beyond being non-judgmental, accepting, and committed to providing long-term support. A criminal record won’t automatically exclude applicants; each case is considered individually to ensure the safety of all involved.
Please note, serving police officers and special constables are ineligible for listening roles due to confidentiality policies but are welcome to support in other capacities.
Our volunteers ensure Samaritans’ vital 24/7 service remains available to everyone in need. If you’d like to learn more or have questions, the Gloucester recruitment team encourages you to reach out via email at [email protected]. Join a dedicated group of ordinary people doing extraordinary work at our branch on Park End Road.
If you ever feel alone or overwhelmed, remember, Samaritans are always here—24/7 at 116 123 or by email at [email protected].