Helpline Volunteer

We have an exciting opportunity to join the thriving and dynamic SARSAS team as a Helpline Volunteer.

**About the role**

Our Helpline gives support to 1000s of people each year who have been affected by sexual violence and abuse at any time in their lives. Through our telephone, Live Chat and e-support services we offer emotional support. Volunteers give their time to listen and support people from their first disclosure and all along their healing journey. This is a vital service and it would not exist without our amazing volunteers.

We offer comprehensive initial and ongoing training for this role. Volunteers can also attend monthly clinical reflective practice sessions.

**About you**

You will be motivated to support people affected by sexual violence and abuse. You will be empathic, non-judgemental, and non-discriminatory. You will have a warm and open manner, with the ability to maintain clear boundaries. You will be open to learning new skills and approach the role from a feminist perspective.

**About SARSAS**

SARSAS exists to relieve the trauma and distress, and help rebuild the lives, of survivors who live in Somerset, Bristol, South Gloucestershire, North Somerset and BANES, who have experienced any form of sexual violence, at any point in their lives.

SARSAS also campaigns and raises awareness about rape and sexual violence to change the narrative about sexual violence and enable survivor’s voices to be heard. Partnership work with a range of agencies locally and nationally is a priority to enable social change.

SARSAS works to feminist principles: this underpins both what our service is and how it is run. Our work is guided by a trauma-informed approach which understands how traumatic experiences can impact on survivors and keeps an awareness of the effects of trauma at the forefront of our approach to support.

This video developed as part of the 2021 GSK Impact Awardswill give you a taster of the work we do.

**Equality, diversity, and inclusion**

At SARSAS we strive to create a workplace that reflect the communities we serve and where everyone feels empowered to bring their full, authentic selves to work. We want to build an inclusive culture that encourages, supports, and celebrates diverse voices. We actively encourage applicants with protected characteristics to apply.

We are committed to taking an inclusive approach to recruitment and selection whilst ensuring there is no discrimination in our processes and that our team and prospective volunteers are treated fairly, with respect and without bias. Reasonable adjustments to the interview process can be made to accommodate additional requirements. Applicants are encouraged to highlight any specific adjustments needed to enable participation in the recruitment process.

**Volunteering hours & location**

One 3-hour shift per week. The role is hybrid, the office is based in Bristol.

**How to apply**

Deadline**:Monday 21st August 2023**

**Skills**:

- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to work well in a team and collaborate with others
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
- Reliable and punctual

As a volunteer, you will have the opportunity to make a positive impact in the community while gaining valuable experience. This is a great opportunity for individuals who are passionate about giving back and want to contribute their skills and time to a worthy cause.

**Job Type**: Volunteer

**Benefits**:

- Company events
- Company pension
- Gym membership

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Bristol