National Support Line Volunteer

Can you help us provide emotional support and information to help people to access the support they need?

As a National Support Line Volunteer, you will be part of a team giving much-needed help to people who have been directly affected by a major incident or emergency, or otherwise wishing to access support for their practical, health and/or social care needs. Working as part of a team you will contribute to the day to day provision of the service, providing an empathic listening ear, information about support available from British Red Cross and signposting to complimentary offers elsewhere.

The Support Line operates between 10am and 5pm Monday to Friday, and until 8pm on Wednesdays. A briefing is provided before each shift, and a debriefing takes place at the end of each shift, each lasting approximately 15 minutes.

Volunteers will generally be able to undertake a minimum of one shift (4.5 hours) per week. Shift patterns are 9.45am – 2.15pm, and 1.45pm – 5.15pm, 5 days a week. We ask for a commitment of 6 months, or 26 shifts, as a minimum following training.

This is a Volunteer From Home opportunity, requiring access to a computer or laptop (tablets do not work with our system), internet connection, telephone, and a quiet space to perform the role. Volunteers must be IT proficient.

Please note that this role does not meet the requirements of a clinical placement for Counselling students, but would provide valuable experience for anyone who is interested in gaining a counselling/therapy qualification.

Diversity is something we celebrate. We want you to be able to bring your authentic self to the Red Cross and feel that you belong.

We want to create an inclusive environment, and promote and spread the power of kindness.

As part of creating an inclusive space we have an expenses policy that prioritises volunteers not being out of pocket for expenses linked to your role. If up front costs are difficult, you can speak to your volunteering manager about this to find alternatives.

We welcome refugees, asylum seekers and others currently in the UK to volunteer with us.

We want volunteering to be accessible to everyone.

We take an individual approach to ensuring your safety, and we will also have a conversation with you to discuss any adjustments you may need.

Please contact volunteerrecruitment@redcross.org.uk if you have any questions.