Childline Volunteer Counsellor

Childline Volunteer Counsellor Someone who wants to make a difference to children’s lives by being there to listen when they feel they have no one else to turn to. As a Childline counsellor, you’ll be there for young people and listen to them as they open up about whatever is worrying them, whether it’s bullying, abuse, self-harm or family relationships – you’ll be there to support them.

What you’ll do You’ll volunteer in our Leeds Childline base, offering counselling support to children and young people over the phone or through our 1-2-1 online chat. Your supervisor will help you develop and evaluate your counselling skills. After your initial training, you will be able to help young people as well as identify when a child or young person may be at risk, but don’t worry a supervisor will be on hand to give you plenty of support.

What you’ll get You’ll receive training sessions over 12 weeks to prepare you for the role. When you start your regular shifts, a supervisor will be around all times to support you. Every shift includes a briefing and debriefing alongside other volunteers. Supervisors will also give you regular one-to-one support and group supervisions.

If you are interested in volunteering for Childline in Leeds and want to find out more about the roles available, the next step is to attend a Volunteer Information Meeting, which is a fantastic opportunity to: -Meet with staff as well as volunteers to ask any questions you may have -Learn more about the application process and your volunteer journey Our meetings are designed to help you decide whether you want to apply – there's no obligation or expectation that you'll apply if you attend one. At the meeting, you'll also receive information on other ways you can become a supporter of the NSPCC.

To book a place at one of our online Volunteer Information Meetings, please follow the link below to register your interest.

https://join-us.nspcc.org.uk/volunteers/vacancy/childline-volunteer-information-meeting-leeds---st-johns-offices-/7478/description/

If you have any queries about volunteering in Childline Leeds, please contact Rebecca at Rebecca.Shaw@NSPCC.org.uk
learn more:NSPCC | Volunteers

Skills

What we’ll need from you Signing up to be a Childline counsellor is a big commitment and requires lots of training so, we do ask people to stay in the role for a minimum of one year.

We’ll also need to do some routine safeguarding checks, including an enhanced criminal record check and at least two satisfactory references with at least one covering a period of five years or more with no gaps. It’s nothing to worry about, and we can answer any questions you have about this.

Who’s right for the role? While we think this role is suitable for a whole range of people, we are particularly looking for those with the following qualities and experience.

-Passionate about helping young people and children -Great communication skills -Empathetic and perceptive -Able to think on your feet -Works well within a team -Emotional resilience