Volunteering for the Samaritans.

Littlegreelady

Hi,

I'm not sure if this is in the right place, I tried searching but couldn't see any threads already on this subject, but apologies if I have missed it.

Just wanted a bit of knowledge really - I'm in the process of applying to be a volunteer for the Samaritans. I'm booked to go on a selection day in a couple of weeks time and assuming I'm selected, I'll start their training course in September. I was just looking to hear from people that had gone through it already, to know what to expect from it all.

Thanks in advance

babyshoes

It is a wonderful experience - the training is tough and incredibly intensive, but very worth while. I used to be a trainer with my local branch, until I began to struggle with depression myself!

The selection day can be quite a strain, but try to relax. Don't worry if your emotions get the better of you - crying about something which was discussed that touched a raw spot is quite acceptable!

Expect lots of 'involvement' with the training, it is definitely not passive. Different branches run it in different ways - and the manual allows for various combinations of tea/meal breaks etc, but the basics of the course are the same. Expect to be 'practising' phone calls quite quickly, but don't worry if you mess some up - as long as you learn from your mistakes you will be fine when it is for real!

Most of the sessions are fairly intense, both intellectually and emotionally - there is a lot to learn and some of it can bring out strong emotions. Try not to commit to doing anything too strenuous after each session, but equally don't sit at home alone stewing about anything that is worrying you! The trainers should give you a number to call if you have any concerns - don't be afraid to use it, even if what you are worrying about seems petty. Failing that, get out and do something to get your mind off it. Don't dwell on anything too much - that is a skill you will have to learn to get on the phones - offload and analyse what has happened in the shift, then let it go - you can't let things stay with you or you won't be in a fit state to help the next caller.

Finally I want to say well done and thank-you for taking the first step. Too many people think they won't have what it takes, but really anyone who thinks they could possibly do it, probably could. That said, some people just can't, through no fault of their own, such as past traumas, deeply held religious beliefs or simple personality type - so don't feel bad if you don't make it. You are a good person for wanting to do it.

Most of all, enjoy it! I found it very rewarding, the people were lovely and we had some good laughs, especially at lunch times and meet-ups afterwards.

Ianna

I don't have any insight into the training, I just wanted to say thanks for doing this. The Samaritans is a service I've used a lot before when I was in very unstable and unhappy places. I got a lot out of it, and they really helped me. I'm incredibly grateful to people that do this.

One thing I'd say is that remember that one of the hardest things is that you don't get to see the end result. You'll get people that hang up - maybe mid conversation because they can't cope with life - and you'll never hear from them again. You will have made a difference to them though, sometimes just having someone listen to you can make an incredible difference. The volunteers that helped me won't have a clue that they helped me so much but I'm very grateful to each and every one.

Littlegreelady

Wow thanks Babyshoes, that's a very honest account and has helped me immensely. I have to say it's something I've wanted to do for a very long time but only just really found the courage to do it. The Sams were there for me too Ianna when I was in a dark place and it's no exaggeration to say they saved my life by listening to me. I always vowed that when I was out of the dark place I would give back what I took - which is what I'm doing now. I'm nervous that the training will bring up reminders from the past and I was worried that that might make me unsuitable but after reading Babyshoe's post, I feel most confident that if it does bring things up, I will be given support to deal with it and that it won't be seen as a negative. My sister and I are applying together, so I'm hoping that will mean if there are difficult shifts, we will have each other to lean on and debrief, as well as being able to take our minds off of it. The people I met on the open evening were lovely and friendly so I'm looking forward to working with the team.

But thanks again for the messages x

sams247

Hi, I was with Samaritans for many years and I can honestly say it is a very supportive and very accepting place to be - including the training! Most of all - use the help adn support that is on offer, you will always have contact numbers of people you can ring when you ahve a niggle or a worry, use them and don't fret. The main thing is do not think you can 'save' anyone, one of the main things to learn and the most important lesson is that people have the right to live their life in the way they do, and you cannot know better or do better. This means letting go when they hang up, and it means you wont be manipulated by some of the callers. Some people call Samaritans for manipulation, or for sex talk. Be prepared, and learn when to say no! You'll be taught this.

It is rewarding, it is an amazing thing to do. Good luck. And be honest with yourself and those around you - if you are worried or upset, tell someone and you'll get all the help you need.

markandkate

I was a volunteer for nearly ten years and it really is an amazing and rewarding experience. I echo all that everyone else has said and made two really good friends that I have now known or over 20 years.

I learnt such a lot about myself as well as the many troubled people in the world. The training is excellent and the support from people from all backgrounds is just fantastic