Befrienders

Volunteer Role Description: Peer Support for Individuals Bereaved through Suicide

Role Overview: We are seeking compassionate and empathetic volunteers to serve as Befrienders for individuals who have been profoundly affected by suicide. As a Befriender, you will play a pivotal role in providing emotional support and companionship to those who have experienced the loss of a loved one through suicide. This role entails tailoring your support to the unique needs of each individual, which may range from occasional telephone or text communication to regular in-person meetings over a cup of coffee.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Provide Emotional Support: Offer a safe and empathetic space for individuals to express their feelings, concerns, and thoughts related to their loss.
2. Tailored Support: Adapt your befriending approach to the specific needs and preferences of the person you are supporting, respecting their pace and boundaries.
3. Maintain Regular Contact: Keep in touch with the individual through agreed-upon channels, whether it's phone calls, text messages, or in-person meetings, as per their comfort and choice.
4. Record Keeping: Maintain accurate and confidential records of your interactions, ensuring that relevant information is documented for organizational purposes and continuous support improvement.
5. Promote Compassion and Non-judgment: Foster an atmosphere of trust, understanding, and non-judgment, allowing individuals to share their experiences without fear of criticism.
6. Flexibility: Be flexible in your availability and approach, recognizing that grief is a dynamic process, and the level of support needed may change over time.
7. Reliability: Recognize the critical importance of attending scheduled meetings and commitments, given the vulnerability of the people we support. Your reliability is key to building trust and providing consistent support.

Skills/Characteristics Desired:

1. Empathy: The ability to genuinely understand and connect with the emotions and experiences of others.
2. Kindness: A compassionate and caring nature, demonstrating kindness and respect in all interactions.
3. Record Keeping: Basic skills in maintaining organised and confidential records.
4. Compassion: A deep sense of empathy and a desire to help alleviate the suffering of those affected by suicide loss.
5. Flexibility: Willingness to adapt your approach to meet the evolving needs of the individual.
6. Non-judgmental Attitude: A commitment to offering support without judgment or criticism.
7. Lived Experience: Preferred but not mandatory, having personal experience with suicide or supporting individuals with mental health challenges can be an asset in this role.

Time Commitment: The time commitment for this volunteer role can vary, depending on the needs and preferences of the individual you are supporting. Volunteers may be asked to commit to a specific number of hours or meetings per week or month.

Training and Support: We provide comprehensive training and ongoing support to help you excel in this role. This includes guidance on active listening, grief support, and resources related to suicide bereavement.

Benefits of Volunteering:

• The opportunity to make a positive impact on someone's life during a challenging time.
• Personal growth through the development of empathy, active listening, and communication skills.
• Joining a supportive and caring community of volunteers and professionals dedicated to mental health and well-being.

If you have a compassionate heart and are committed to supporting individuals affected by suicide, we invite you to apply for this vital volunteer role. Your contribution can make a significant difference in helping people navigate their grief and find a path towards healing and hope.