I first became a volunteer at Survive in 1998 while I was studying for
my Diploma in Counselling. At that time, we occupied two small attic
rooms right at the top of number 10. There was one paid worker that
seemed to do everything, running the Frontline and the counselling
side. There were 12 volunteer counsellors, no paid counsellors
and 2 qualified counsellors who acted as mentors to the volunteers, in
addition to their individual supervisors.
I can remember my first client and how nervous I was! It seemed such a
long trek down to the reception on the ground floor to meet my client
and then back up stairs again.
I look at Survive and where it is now, 2 floors down, 4 rooms instead
of 2, 6 paid staff, working flat out to try and keep up with the
workload and realise just how much it has grown.
I remember all the clients I have had and I can honestly say that I
have learned from each of them. My current client load is 3 whom I see
weekly.
I have supervision once a fortnight and I have access to my supervisor
by phone for emergencies. Mentoring is available from both counselling
co-ordinators, on a regular weekly basis or by telephone if I need
advice or clarification. We also have regular monthly counselling team
meetings, in which we are updated about plans for the counselling side
and any progress or otherwise with previously discussed issues.
I find the work as a volunteer counsellor challenging and varied but
very rewarding even though sometimes it can be tiring.
Lesley Bird
“Talking
to people who have had counselling elsewhere, I know how lucky I
am to have counselling of such high
quality. My friends are envious”