Support offered by the Samaritans
The vision of Bognor Regis, Chichester & District Samaritans is that fewer people die by suicide. They support anyone struggling to cope and according to their logistics they get contacted every 10 seconds; every call is a chance to help someone turn their life around.
Their listening volunteers are there for anyone who needs someone to talk to. It’s always different and interesting – no two conversations are the same.
Becoming a listening volunteer
To be a Samaritan you don’t need to have previous experience or qualifications, but you will need to be empathetic, non-judgemental, and accepting of others. You’ll receive full training to prepare you for the kinds of conversations you’ll have.
When you start out, you’ll have a mentor with you, to give you confidence you’re doing the right thing. In return they ask for a minimum commitment of three hours per week.
As a listening volunteer you get the chance to make a real difference to someone’s future. You’ll get to join a diverse and supportive team of people and benefit from a range of new skills and the confidence to use them, including the ability to understand people and manage difficult conversations.
Take the next step by discovering if being a listening volunteer is right for you. Register your interest and find out more about the qualities and training it takes to become a Samaritan by visiting: www.samaritans.org/become-samaritans-listening-volunteer
