From a Frontline Volunteer

I completed my training as a Frontline volunteer for Survive in November 2003. Prior to joining Survive. I had experience of     telephone helpline work through volunteering for York University Nightline as a student.

Since completing my initial training with Survive, I have attended several volunteer business meetings, Frontline social events, and also a recent training event on the organisation’s policy regarding suicide calls. I feel very well supported by Survive in my work as a Frontline volunteer. I found staff at Survive very understanding when I needed to take some time out from volunteering for personal reasons, for example. I was given an opportunity to practice my skills before returning to take calls, which was really helpful.

As a Frontline volunteer, I feel that there are clear opportunities for me to raise any concerns and have these listened to, and to get support whenever this is required. I am really looking forward to gaining further experience on the Survive Helpline in the future.

I spoke to a caller tonight who was able to explore her feelings and ‘wobbles’ by talking them out loud. She said she hoped that one day she wouldn’t need to ring us, but for now, she was glad we were here. Helpline volunteer