At a Glance
- Tasks: Support individuals in distress by taking calls and providing empathetic listening.
- Company: Join Samaritans Orkney, a vital organisation dedicated to mental health support.
- Benefits: Gain valuable skills, experience personal growth, and make a real difference in people's lives.
- Why this job: This role offers the chance to help others while developing your own emotional intelligence and resilience.
- Qualifications: No prior experience needed; just bring empathy and a willingness to learn.
- Other info: Commit to 4-hour shifts, three times a month, with full training provided.
Listening volunteers are there for anyone who needs someone and have the ability to change the course of someone’s life. Listening volunteers take calls from people who are in distress or despair, and provide support to callers who are actively suicidal.
Samaritans Orkney are looking for individuals to commit to duties of a 4-hour duration, 3 times a month, covering:
- Tuesday 18:00-22:00
- Thursday 13:00-17:00
- Thursday 18:00-22:00
What could a volunteer gain from the experience? You will have the incredible satisfaction of knowing you’re helping people who are in despair, whilst learning valuable new skills.
Experience required: Listeners need to be empathetic and non-judgemental. No previous experience needed as full training will be given. Full support and extensive training given.
Restrictions: Minimum age: 18. Role only suitable for adults. Any support requirements can be discussed at interview.
Contact Detail:
Voluntary Action Orkney Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Listening Volunteer (Orkney)
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the core values and mission of Samaritans. Understanding their approach to listening and support will help you align your mindset with what they are looking for in a volunteer.
✨Tip Number 2
Consider reaching out to current or former volunteers to gain insights into their experiences. This can provide you with valuable information about the role and help you articulate your motivation during the interview.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice active listening skills in your daily interactions. Being able to demonstrate these skills in real-life situations will show your commitment to the role and your ability to connect with those in distress.
✨Tip Number 4
Be prepared to discuss scenarios where you've shown empathy or supported someone in need. Sharing personal stories can highlight your suitability for the role and your understanding of the challenges faced by callers.
We think you need these skills to ace Listening Volunteer (Orkney)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, take some time to fully understand what being a Listening Volunteer entails. Familiarise yourself with the responsibilities and the impact you can have on individuals in distress.
Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, emphasise your empathy and non-judgemental attitude. Even if you lack direct experience, showcase any relevant skills or experiences that demonstrate your ability to support others.
Personal Statement: Craft a compelling personal statement that reflects your motivation for wanting to become a Listening Volunteer. Share why this role is important to you and how you believe you can contribute to the Samaritans Orkney.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, make sure to proofread your application for any spelling or grammatical errors. A well-presented application shows attention to detail and professionalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at Voluntary Action Orkney
✨Show Empathy
As a Listening Volunteer, empathy is key. During the interview, demonstrate your ability to understand and share the feelings of others. Share personal experiences where you've supported someone in need, highlighting your compassionate nature.
✨Understand the Role
Familiarise yourself with the responsibilities of a Listening Volunteer. Be prepared to discuss what you believe the role entails and how you can contribute positively. This shows your commitment and understanding of the position.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions about the training process and ongoing support. This not only shows your interest in the role but also your desire to be well-prepared for the challenges ahead.
✨Be Honest About Your Availability
Since the role requires specific time commitments, be upfront about your availability. This transparency will help both you and the organisation determine if it’s a good fit, ensuring you can fulfil your duties effectively.