Helpline & Email Support Volunteer

We require passionate and committed women to join our volunteer force to help support women survivor(s) of sexual violence. We are looking for women with a feminist perspective on sexual violence who understands the importance of empathy, confidentiality, and handling sensitive personal data. We particularly welcome volunteers from black and minoritised women, members of the LGBTQ community and / or women with disabilities.

Helpline Volunteers are the backbone of RCTN’s Helpline! The helpline listens to, and signposts callers to services and support, and runs Mon-Thurs (6 - 8:30pm) and Fridays (11 - 2pm). Communication is via telephone and emails in our office.

• Offer support to women survivors of sexual violence over the telephone and email during advertised helpline sessions
• Ensure all monitoring forms and records are kept up to date
• Ensure all policies and procedures are adhered to
• Participate in support, peer support and external clinical supervision
• To promote equal opportunities and anti-oppressive practice in all areas of work
• Support the values and ethos of RCTN as set out in the Mission Statement

Skills

Knowledge:

• Understanding the needs of women survivors of sexual violence
• A basic understanding of the laws relating to rape / sexual abuse is desirable but not necessary

Skills:

• Good listening and communication skills
• Self-motivation
• Good interpersonal skills
• Ability to work as a team member

Attributes:

• Emotional resilience
• Honesty
• Empathy
• Integrity
• Flexible and adaptable

Commitment to:

• Maintaining appropriate confidentiality
• Promoting equality and diversity
• Working in a women-only environment

Minimum of 6 hours per month (2 x 3 hour evening sessions) and attendance at one supervision session per 6 weeks or equivalent by agreement of the RCTN Volunteer Coordinator.