Every day, thousands of people working in contact centres make a difference through one simple skill: listening.
Whether helping a customer through a difficult situation, resolving a problem, or simply being a calm voice at the other end of the phone, our industry is built on empathy, patience and understanding. Those same qualities are at the very heart of the Samaritans.
That’s why South West Contact Centre Forum is delighted to support Weston-super-Mare & North Somerset Samaritans as they recruit new Listening Volunteers, led by our member Gary Delafield, Operations Director at Thatchers Cider and Branch Director for the local Samaritans branch.
Volunteering with the Samaritans is an opportunity to make a genuine difference to people’s lives. Volunteers provide a safe, confidential space for anyone who needs someone to listen, helping people through some of life’s most difficult moments. Full training, mentoring and ongoing support are provided, so no previous experience is required.
The Weston-super-Mare branch is looking for people who can commit to approximately one three-hour shift each week. Volunteers work alongside another listener and are supported by an experienced shift leader throughout every session. Shifts are available across the day, evening and overnight, offering flexibility to fit around work and family commitments.
For many people working in customer service, contact centres or customer experience, the skills they use every day naturally lend themselves to this rewarding role. Listening without judgement, showing empathy and helping people feel heard are qualities that can have an extraordinary impact.
If you’ve ever thought about giving something back to your local community, this could be the opportunity you’ve been looking for.
We’re proud to support Gary and the incredible work of Weston-super-Mare & North Somerset Samaritans, and we’d encourage anyone interested to find out more.
Interested in becoming a Listening Volunteer?
Visit the Samaritans volunteer page or call into the Weston-super-Mare & North Somerset branch to learn more about the role and how to apply. The role involves 3-4 hours per week, with a mix of shifts to suit all schedules, however we do ask that this includes four night shifts (2am – 6am) per year. You will receive training, ongoing mentoring and full support throughout your volunteering journey.
Listening with Samaritans gives you the chance to make a real difference in people’s lives, while doing something truly meaningful and rewarding. We are ordinary people doing extraordinary things – and you could be one of us.