Helpline Volunteers REF:003HLV
Refuge is the largest specialist service provider of domestic violence services in the country. It opened the world’s very first refuge in London in 1971 and celebrated its 40th birthday in 2011. On any given day Refuge is supporting over 1,600 women and children. It also runs the Freephone 24-hour National Domestic Violence Helpline in partnership with Women’s Aid.
Helpline Volunteers REF: 020HLV
Tower Hill, London
We are recruiting female* volunteers for the National Domestic Violence Helpline, who will be responsible for providing support, information and a listening ear to women experiencing domestic violence and to those seeking help on her behalf. The role involves discussing the options available and, if appropriate, referring callers on to refuges and other sources of help and information.
You will have an awareness of domestic violence issues, together with the ability to assess the needs of callers to the helpline. In addition you will possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills combined with empathy and sensitivity. You will be well organized and have good administrative skills.
Volunteers will be required to cover a regular weekly 4 hour shift at Refuges head office in Tower Hill, during either daytime/ evening or weekends.
Applicants MUST be able to attend 100% of the training program on the following dates: Wed 6th, Thu 7th, Fri 8th, Sat 9th, Wed 13th, Thu 14th, Sat 16th and Sun 17th June. This also includes 4 hours of shadowing before the training begins. Training will take place from 10am until 5pm at the head office in Tower Hill
If you are unable to commit to this training but would still like to volunteer, we will be holding another program in September 2012 on Wed 5th, Thur 6th, Fri 7th, Wed 12th, Thur 13th, Sat 15th and Sun 16th. The closing date for applications for this program will be 9 July 2012. Should you wish to submit an application now, please complete the form below, clearly stating it is for the September program. Please note we will not be in contact until after 9 July 2012.
Volunteer travel expenses up to £7 per shift can be refunded
This post offers personal welfare support to women and is therefore restricted to women under the Equality Act 2010*
Closing date: 24 April 2012 at 10am
Telephone interviews: Friday 27 April 2012
Face to face interviews: Monday 30th April and Tuesday 1st May
An enhanced criminal records bureau disclosure will be required for this role.
Person Specification VolunteerHelpline Worker
1 Volunteer letter to potential new volunteers
2 Volunteers – Instruction sheet
In view of the nature of the Occupational Requirement under the Equality Act 2010 applies.
All candidates must demonstrate a commitment to the values of empowerment, support and equality, which underpins all the work undertaken by Refuge.
Refuge values diversity and welcomes applications from all sections of the community.
