We are delighted that you are interested in volunteering for Dublin Branch of Samaritans Read our FAQ's below for more information.

Why do we need more Volunteers?

Samaritans is entirely dependent on voluntary support. Like any organisation, it has a natural attrition rate of volunteers who leave due to changes in work, family or other circumstances. It's a challenging experience and it can be very rewarding, knowing that you may have made a difference.

What training will I get?

We will ensure you are fully prepared for your role as a Samaritans volunteer. Successful applicants will initally attend a series of 7 preparation sessions within a group and learn about active listening and different types of calls by taking part in skills practice exercises and group discussion. This is followed by further training during a probationary period.

What Support will I get?

You will train, learn and then work with a group of people who will act as informal back-up for you. When you are on the phones, there will always be experienced volunteers on hand to support you. Volunteers are never left to cope with a harrowing call on their own

What commitment would I need to give?

The hours of shifts do vary quite a lot from branch to branch. But typically, once you are trained you are asked to commit for 2 years, this involves doing a weekly shift of 3 hours with 1 night shift every 2 months.

I have a full-time job/other commitments during the day - can I do shifts in the evenings and at weekends?

Samaritans volunteers are from all walks of life, which includes having commitments/jobs during the day. Doing a shift in the evening or at the weekend therefore fits in with their lifestyle. At the moment our greatest need is for late nights, weekends and weekdays.

What if I am studying at night?

Volunteering for Samaritans is a big commitment, from the start you need to attend weekly training classes, do mentred shifts and follow up training as well as your weekly duty. If you have undertaken a commitment to a diploma, degree or post grad, volunteering at this time may not be suitable and it might be best to wait until you have finished your studies.

Do I have to do a night shift?

Yes. Samaritans run a 24 hour emotional support helpline which needs to be manned throughout the night. In fact, demand from callers is at its greatest between 10pm - 2am. Therefore it is essential we have volunteers available to take calls at that time.

Where will I be taking the calls from?

All calls will be taken from Samaritans' Branch. In Dublin the office is at 112 Marlborough Street, just across from the Abbey Theatre. This ensures absolute confidentiality for the caller and support to be at hand for the volunteer if needed.

What qualities are you looking for in a volunteer?

We are looking for people who can empathise with our callers and can be caring and understanding of their situation. You don't need formal qualifications or previous experience, but a natural ability to listen and remain open minded are essential skills.

What Next?

If you are able to commit to 1 weekly shift and 1 bi-monthly overnight for a period of 2 years then the next step to volunteer for Dublin Samaritans is to attend one of our information evenings, these are usually held twice a year in Spring & Autumn. Fill out our online form and we will get back to you with the details. Currently our greatest need is weekends and late nights.

If you would like to volunteer for another branch in Ireland, please call the National recruitment line on 1890 200 091, state the branch you wish to volunteer with, your details we be forwarded to your local branch who will then contact you.

LEINSTER: Athlone, Drogheda, Kilkenny, Newbridge,

MUNSTER: Cork, Ennis, Tralee, Limerick, Waterford.

CONNAUGHT: Galway, Sligo

 

• Athlone
• Cork
• Drogheda
• Ennis
• Galway
• Tralee
• Kilkenny
• Limerick
• Newbridge
• Sligo
• Waterford