call taker

We are not a counselling line, although empathic listening does play a large part in taking calls. An information manual and training aimed at specific Helpline issues is provided for volunteers during the training process which is a mix of online and face to face.

The line can be picked up on any landline or mobile number so volunteers can take calls while at home.

We ask that volunteers offer a minimum of 2-3 hours a week on the line, attend two full days of initial training and also commit to attending support meetings once every six weeks. These meetings focus on ongoing training and finding out more about support agency services. They also offer an opportunity to talk through any issues or difficult calls that arise, meet other team members, be updated on current information and raise general awareness around domestic abuse issues.

Our call takers are are often the first point of contact for many. We receive around 2,000 calls a year, the majority from victims or survivors of domestic violence or abuse, but we also help concerned friends or family members, those concerned about their behaviour to others and we receive many calls from professionals wishing to access information and other agency details often on behalf of clients/patients.