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Home > What We Do > Helpline > Become a Helpline Volunteer

Can you be there for someone in need?

Our Helpline benefits from the support of volunteers. All our Helpline volunteers are based at our office in Erdington.

We currently receive over 500 calls each week, from local residents needing to speak with compassionate people. By becoming a Helpline volunteer you can change the course of someone’s life. 

Is volunteering right for you?

You don’t need to have any call handling or mental health experience as you’ll receive full training to prepare you for the kinds of conversations you’ll have.

We welcome volunteers with lived mental health experience and we ask that you commit to a minimum of 4 hours per week volunteering with us. All our volunteers work alongside our staff in our Helpline team.

You’ll gain a range of new skills and the confidence to use them, including the ability to understand people and manage difficult conversations. Our calls range from people enquiring about how to manage their wellbeing, concerns about a family member or a caller maybe experiencing a mental health crisis. Many employers value these kinds of skills.

What it’s like being a volunteer?

Every day is different and varied. You’ll be an integral part of the Helpline Team and will work alongside a staff member on each shift – you will never be alone.

You’ll attend team meetings and regular progress chats. You’ll also receive any out of pocket expenses for travel and food.

Application Process

  1. Complete the online application form below
  2. We have 4 intakes each year- January, April, July and October
  3. You will be invited to attend a Volunteer Information Session, at our Helpline, in Erdington, north Birmingham.
  4. If you wish to progress, we will contact your two nominated referees
  5. Once your references have been received, you will be invited to attend an informal (in person) interview.
  6.  We will then carry out an enhanced DBS check.
  7. You will then be invited to attend an orientation session, at which point you’ll become a Helpline Volunteer.
  8. We will register you on to our comprehensive training program.

Interested?