Volunteer Hub
Volunteer on the domestic abuse helpline
Organisation Details
Independent Choices Greater Manchester
Sub theme: Domestic Violence
Stellify Award: This opportunity is part of 'Make a Difference'
Organisation Description: Local charity that delivers the Greater Manchester Domestic Abuse Helpline, a confidential telephone service for victims/survivors of domestic abuse, any concerned family/friends and professionals working in the area of domestic abuse.
Description of role: Join Our Team and Make a Difference
Are you compassionate, a great listener, and looking for a way to support people in need? As a Helpline Volunteer, you’ll provide a vital lifeline to individuals experiencing domestic abuse. Through listening, reassurance, and practical guidance, you’ll help people feel heard, valued, and empowered to take their next steps toward safety and support. Every call you take could make a real difference in someone’s life.
What You’ll Be Doing
Answer calls and emails from people affected by domestic abuse – survivors, concerned family members, and professionals seeking advice.
Offer a friendly, non-judgmental space where callers can share their experiences safely.
Provide practical support, from safety planning to explaining available services.
Help callers understand their rights, options, and how they can access support.
Assess immediate risks and ensure each caller’s safety is prioritised.
Signpost callers to specialist services, including legal aid, housing support, and mental health services.
Complete confidential records of calls, following data protection guidelines.
Take part in training to develop your knowledge and skills.
Who We’re Looking For
You don’t need prior experience – just a willingness to listen, learn, and support others. The following qualities will help you succeed in this role:
A kind, non-judgmental approach and the ability to provide reassurance.
Strong listening skills and a calm presence, even during emotional conversations.
An open mind and a commitment to respecting each caller’s choices.
A desire to learn more about domestic abuse and the support available.
Basic computer skills to log call information and access resources.
Training & Support
We want you to feel confident in your role, so we provide full training, including:
Understanding domestic abuse and its impact.
Active listening and emotional support skills.
How to help someone make a safety plan.
Information on legal rights and housing options.
Managing challenging calls and emotional well-being.
Confidentiality and data protection guidelines.
You’ll also receive regular check-ins, ongoing training, and a supportive team that’s always here for you.
Examples of How You’ll Help
Emotional Support: A caller is feeling isolated and overwhelmed after leaving an abusive relationship. You listen with empathy, validate their feelings, and remind them they’re not alone.
Safety Planning: A survivor is worried about their safety if they leave their partner. You help them plan a safe exit strategy, find emergency contacts, and prepare important documents.
Finding Services: A caller is seeking legal advice about a non-molestation order. You signpost them to our Legal Line and connect them with specialist legal support.
Supporting Loved Ones: A concerned parent calls about their child’s abusive relationship. You offer guidance on how they can support their child while respecting their choices.
How Much Time Do You Need to Give?
We appreciate the time you can offer and would like 1 shift a week for 3 hours. Shifts are flexible, and we’ll work with you to find a schedule that suits your availability.
Why Volunteer With Us?
Be part of a compassionate, dedicated team making a real impact.
Gain valuable experience in emotional support and crisis intervention.
Receive full training and ongoing development opportunities.
Make a tangible difference in people’s lives.
Feel supported and valued as a volunteer.
Are you compassionate, a great listener, and looking for a way to support people in need? As a Helpline Volunteer, you’ll provide a vital lifeline to individuals experiencing domestic abuse. Through listening, reassurance, and practical guidance, you’ll help people feel heard, valued, and empowered to take their next steps toward safety and support. Every call you take could make a real difference in someone’s life.
What You’ll Be Doing
Answer calls and emails from people affected by domestic abuse – survivors, concerned family members, and professionals seeking advice.
Offer a friendly, non-judgmental space where callers can share their experiences safely.
Provide practical support, from safety planning to explaining available services.
Help callers understand their rights, options, and how they can access support.
Assess immediate risks and ensure each caller’s safety is prioritised.
Signpost callers to specialist services, including legal aid, housing support, and mental health services.
Complete confidential records of calls, following data protection guidelines.
Take part in training to develop your knowledge and skills.
Who We’re Looking For
You don’t need prior experience – just a willingness to listen, learn, and support others. The following qualities will help you succeed in this role:
A kind, non-judgmental approach and the ability to provide reassurance.
Strong listening skills and a calm presence, even during emotional conversations.
An open mind and a commitment to respecting each caller’s choices.
A desire to learn more about domestic abuse and the support available.
Basic computer skills to log call information and access resources.
Training & Support
We want you to feel confident in your role, so we provide full training, including:
Understanding domestic abuse and its impact.
Active listening and emotional support skills.
How to help someone make a safety plan.
Information on legal rights and housing options.
Managing challenging calls and emotional well-being.
Confidentiality and data protection guidelines.
You’ll also receive regular check-ins, ongoing training, and a supportive team that’s always here for you.
Examples of How You’ll Help
Emotional Support: A caller is feeling isolated and overwhelmed after leaving an abusive relationship. You listen with empathy, validate their feelings, and remind them they’re not alone.
Safety Planning: A survivor is worried about their safety if they leave their partner. You help them plan a safe exit strategy, find emergency contacts, and prepare important documents.
Finding Services: A caller is seeking legal advice about a non-molestation order. You signpost them to our Legal Line and connect them with specialist legal support.
Supporting Loved Ones: A concerned parent calls about their child’s abusive relationship. You offer guidance on how they can support their child while respecting their choices.
How Much Time Do You Need to Give?
We appreciate the time you can offer and would like 1 shift a week for 3 hours. Shifts are flexible, and we’ll work with you to find a schedule that suits your availability.
Why Volunteer With Us?
Be part of a compassionate, dedicated team making a real impact.
Gain valuable experience in emotional support and crisis intervention.
Receive full training and ongoing development opportunities.
Make a tangible difference in people’s lives.
Feel supported and valued as a volunteer.
Skills / qualities associated with the role: Customer Service, IT Skills, Oral Communication Skills, Team Working, Written Communication Skills
Are volunteer expenses available?: Yes
Duration of role: Ongoing / Long term
Opportunity times: Monday AM, Monday PM, Tuesday AM, Tuesday PM, Wednesday AM, Wednesday PM, Thursday AM, Thursday PM, Friday AM, Friday PM
DBS required: Off
Can reasonable adjustments be made regarding additional needs?: Yes
Is this organisation part of the Sports Volunteering Scheme (SVS)?: No
Minimum hours commitment: 3 hours a week
Location:
unit 1, The Wesley Centre, Royce Road, Hulme,
Manchester
M15 5BP