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- Tasks: Provide emotional support and crisis de-escalation to callers on our helpline.
- Company: Mental Health Matters, a national charity with over 35 years of experience.
- Benefits: Comprehensive training, personal development plans, and travel expenses covered.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while gaining valuable skills.
- Qualifications: No prior experience needed; empathy and a passion for helping others are key.
- Other info: Flexible hours to fit your schedule; must be over 18 and complete an Enhanced DBS check.
The predicted salary is between 500 - 1500 £ per month.
Join Our Team as a Volunteer in our Helpline!
Service: Helpline
Opening Hours: 24/7
Location: Waterside House, Sunderland.
About us
Mental Health Matters (MHM) is a national charity with over 35 years of experience in delivering high-quality mental health and social care services. We have a positive impact on the lives of people living with mental health needs in our local communities. We provide services across England, from Northumberland to Devon, led by a highly motivated and enthusiastic workforce who are committed to delivering the best quality services to those in need of support. Everything about MHM is people focused; our people are central to delivering the highest quality of service and care to our clients and service users.
At our Mental Health Helpline, we offer a crucial lifeline, providing compassionate listening and crisis de-escalation for numerous NHS Trusts. We're on the lookout for empathetic and dedicated individuals to join us in delivering this transformative support.
About the role
Our Volunteers are incredibly important in supporting the work we do, and we value individuals who dedicate their time to find the perfect fit within our organisation. We are currently excited to welcome volunteers to the Helpline, to support with our emotional support provision. The service operates 24/7 but we welcome applications to fit around your availability and capacity. You will be part of a team that provides emotional support and signposting to our callers and will be supported by the Telephone Support Workers and Shift Supervisors at all times.
About you
Your involvement at the Helpline will make a meaningful difference to those we support. Are you passionate about making a positive impact on others' lives? Do you have empathy and understanding towards different perspectives? Are you happy to work as part of a team? Would you like to learn new skills and develop your abilities to listen and support people? If these qualities resonate with you, we'd love to hear from you and explore how your unique skills and passions can enhance our service.
Requirements
No prior experience is required, and lived experience is always welcomed. We provide comprehensive training - all we ask is that you're ready to take the next step in supporting others. This is a great opportunity for someone with an interest in health and social care services and a drive to make a positive impact. Please Note - Due to the nature of the role, our volunteers will need to be over the age of 18 and will be expected to complete an Enhanced DBS check.
Interested?
For a casual chat about this opportunity, please reach out to our Team Leader, Amy Clark.
Our commitment to you
When you choose to volunteer with us, you'll have a dedicated support system in place. Our Helpline management team will collaborate to craft a personalised development plan that aligns with your goals of volunteering. Your aspirations and interests, whatever they may be, will be at the forefront of this plan. We're here to ensure that your experience as a volunteer is both fulfilling and aligned with what you hope to achieve through your time with us. We also commit to providing reasonable travel expenses (up to £5 a day).
Volunteer Telephone Support Worker in Sunderland employer: Mental Health Matters
Contact Detail:
Mental Health Matters Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Volunteer Telephone Support Worker in Sunderland
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the organisation! Research Mental Health Matters and understand their mission. This will help you connect with the team during your chat and show that you're genuinely interested in making a difference.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your listening skills! As a Volunteer Telephone Support Worker, you'll need to be an empathetic listener. Try role-playing with friends or family to get comfortable with responding to different scenarios.
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready to share your own experiences! If you have any relevant lived experience, don’t hesitate to mention it. It can really resonate with the team and show how you can relate to the callers.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you're proactive and keen to join our amazing team at the Helpline.
We think you need these skills to ace Volunteer Telephone Support Worker in Sunderland
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself!: When you're filling out your application, let your personality shine through. We want to get to know the real you, so don’t be afraid to share your experiences and what drives you to volunteer with us.
Show Your Passion: Make sure to highlight your passion for mental health and helping others. We love seeing candidates who genuinely care about making a difference, so share any relevant experiences or motivations that fuel your desire to support our helpline.
Tailor Your Application: Take a moment to read through the job description and align your skills and experiences with what we’re looking for. A tailored application shows us that you’ve done your homework and are truly interested in joining our team.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it gives you a chance to explore more about our organisation!
How to prepare for a job interview at Mental Health Matters
✨Understand the Role
Before your interview, take some time to really understand what being a Volunteer Telephone Support Worker involves. Familiarise yourself with the key responsibilities and think about how your skills and experiences align with them. This will help you articulate why you're a great fit for the role.
✨Show Your Empathy
Since this role is all about providing emotional support, be prepared to demonstrate your empathy during the interview. Share examples from your life where you've shown understanding and compassion towards others. This will highlight your suitability for the position and show that you genuinely care about making a difference.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare some thoughtful questions about the Helpline service and the team you'll be working with. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you gauge if it's the right fit for you. Plus, it gives you a chance to learn more about the organisation's values and culture.
✨Be Open About Your Availability
Since the Helpline operates 24/7, be clear about your availability during the interview. Discuss how you can fit volunteering around your schedule. This transparency will help the team understand how you can best contribute and ensure that your volunteering experience is manageable and enjoyable.
