At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide non-judgemental support via helpline and text service to those in need.
- Company: Join Sift, a supportive community dedicated to mental health and well-being.
- Benefits: Gain valuable skills, meet like-minded peers, and receive ongoing training.
- Other info: Flexible volunteering with opportunities for personal growth and reflection.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of those affected by self-harm and trauma.
- Qualifications: Open-mindedness, commitment, and a willingness to learn are essential.
Become a Helpline & Text Service Volunteer in Bristol. Sift has been supporting people affected by self-harm, trauma, and distress for almost 40 years. Our wonderful team of Listening Service Volunteers provide valuable, non-judgemental support that makes an important impact on the lives of those who contact us. We’re currently recruiting Bristol-based volunteers for our helpline and text service, to attend shifts at our office and to become part of our friendly, like-minded community.
Our next training block will take place at our Bristol office over four days: 11th & 12th June and 18th & 19th June between 10am and 4pm each day. Please note that attendance on all four dates is required to complete the training. Fill in the short form to apply by 24th May 2026 (extended) – we look forward to hearing from you!
Why volunteer?
- Develop valuable skills and knowledge in active listening, self‑harm, trauma, mental health, and other related areas.
- Meet supportive, like‑minded peers on shift, as well as at our quarterly Volunteer Days where you’ll receive additional relevant training.
- Access support from our coordinators and volunteer team through supervision and reflective practice.
- Develop a gentle, transformative approach to mental health that can be applied elsewhere in life.
- Change the lives of an often overlooked and misunderstood community.
What's it like being a volunteer?
When you join our team, you’ll take part in our four‑day in‑person training course. The training is an opportunity to meet new people and learn the valuable skills you’ll take with you into the work. Working on the service, you’ll answer calls, texts and/or emails from people impacted by self‑harm and offer them confidential, emotional support to understand their own experiences and make decisions that are right for them. Every quarter, you’ll meet a group of your peers to discuss volunteering and have a safe and confidential space to reflect on the work.
Who can volunteer?
We welcome volunteers of all backgrounds and life experiences. You may have your own experiences of self‑harm or mental health challenges or be keen to learn more about how to support others through these experiences. You don’t need previous listening or counselling experience, just an open mind, a commitment to the role, and a willingness to learn. We’re looking for anyone who wants to offer meaningful support, and can listen with empathy and an understanding that everyone’s situation is unique. We’re keen to recruit volunteers who are flexible, adaptable, and open to new learning experiences.
What happens now?
After you submit the form, we’ll get in touch to arrange a chat if we feel you’d be the right fit for our services. We have limited training spaces available and may only be able to respond if your application is successful. If you don’t hear back from us this time, we recommend following us on LinkedIn or checking our website periodically to look out for training opportunities later in the year.
An Enhanced Disclosure Barring Service (DBS) check will be required for this role, which will be paid for by Sift. We ask that volunteers commit to a year on the service after completion of training. If you’re looking for a shorter commitment, this may not be the role for you. You must be available on the training dates mentioned above, and available for one evening shift per week on Mondays and/or Thursdays.
If you have any questions about the role, please contact our team at volunteering@sift.org.uk. Please note that only applications through our online form will be considered and we are not accepting CVs via email.
Listening Services Volunteer employer: Sift UK
Sift is an exceptional employer for those looking to make a meaningful impact in the community through our Listening Services Volunteer role in Bristol. We foster a supportive and inclusive work culture, offering valuable training and development opportunities that equip volunteers with essential skills in mental health and active listening. By joining our dedicated team, you'll not only gain personal growth but also become part of a compassionate community committed to transforming lives.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Listening Services Volunteer
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the organisation! Before your chat, dive into Sift's mission and values. This will help us see that you’re genuinely interested in making a difference and that you understand what we’re all about.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice active listening! Since this role is all about providing support, try to demonstrate your listening skills in conversations. Show us that you can empathise and connect with others – it’s a key part of being a great volunteer.
✨Tip Number 3
Be open about your experiences! Whether you’ve faced challenges yourself or just want to learn, sharing your story can help us understand your motivation. It shows us you’re ready to engage with the community we serve.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! Remember, only applications submitted via our online form will be considered. So, don’t miss out – fill it in and let’s get the ball rolling on your volunteering journey!
We think you need these skills to ace Listening Services Volunteer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself:When filling out the 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 motivations for wanting to volunteer with us.
Show Your Passion:Make sure to express why you’re interested in supporting those affected by self-harm and mental health issues. We love seeing genuine enthusiasm for helping others, so let us know what drives you!
Follow the Instructions:Remember to fill in the short form on our website as specified. We won’t be accepting CVs via email, so make sure you stick to the guidelines to ensure your application is considered.
Check Your Dates:Before you hit submit, double-check that you can commit to all four training days. We need volunteers who can fully engage in the training, so make sure you’re available before applying!
How to prepare for a job interview at Sift UK
✨Know the Mission
Before your interview, take some time to understand Sift's mission and values. Familiarise yourself with their work supporting those affected by self-harm and trauma. This will help you articulate why you want to be a Listening Services Volunteer and how you can contribute to their goals.
✨Show Your Empathy
During the interview, demonstrate your ability to listen and empathise. Share any relevant experiences where you've supported someone in distress or faced challenges yourself. This will show that you have the right mindset for the role and are genuinely interested in helping others.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare a few questions to ask the interviewers about the role and the training process. This shows your enthusiasm and commitment. You might ask about the types of support volunteers typically provide or how the team fosters a supportive environment among volunteers.
✨Be Open About Your Availability
Be clear about your availability for shifts and training dates. Since the role requires a commitment to attend all four training days and regular shifts, being upfront about your schedule will help both you and the team assess if it’s a good fit.
