Support our lgbtq online chat service volunteer
MindOut's Wellbeing Service looks for motivated and compassionate Volunteer Online Assistants to support LGBTQ people experiencing mental health challenges for our Online Chat. Our Online Support Live Chat is confidential, non-judgmental and anonymous.
We require volunteers who can volunteer for our Chat sessions which are currently open on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday from 3-5pm.
For our chat service, you’ll communicate with people in real-time, via our web chat system. Online volunteers are typically people who feel confident using instant messaging tools in their day-to-day lives, can communicate and chat with a number of people at the same time (maximum 3 people), and who are able to create space for others to share their questions, thoughts and feelings. As a volunteer you are an important and valued part of our team and can have a positive impact on the lives of those we support.
As a volunteer you will provide emotional support, information and signposting through our online instant messaging chat system. The service is anonymous, which provides a sense of safety for people who may not feel comfortable or ready or to discuss their concerns in person. People use the service for a variety of reason which can include
To get information, make decisions, feel less lonely or isolated or to problem solve
Seeking information about LGBTQ related support in their local area
Seeking information about MindOut services
Wanting to explore their thoughts and feelings around issues such as their mental health, gender identity, sexuality, relationships, isolation and loneliness
The role can be very rewarding, but can be challenging, as you may come across difficult topics in conversation, so it is important you are able to maintain boundaries, undertake training and follow the guidelines of the role. It is beneficial for volunteers to understand how heterosexism, homophobia, biphobia and transphobia affect the emotional and mental health of LGB&T people.
Please note these positions are recruited for on a rolling basis. Please see next recruitment phases dates below.
Volunteer Information Session: 8th September - 12:00 -1:00pm
Volunteer interviews (all day availability) - 16th September
If successful, training dates as follows:
Training Module 1 - 22nd September, 11:00am–1:00pm
Training Module 2 - 23rd September, 12:00–2:00pm
Training Module 3 - 25th September, 12:00–2:00pm
Volunteer Information Session: 24th November - 11:00am–1:00pm
Volunteer interviews (all day availability) - 2nd December
If successful, training dates as follows:
Training Module 1 - 8th December, 11:00am–1:00pm
Training Module 2 - 9th December, 12:00–2:00pm
Training Module 3 - 11th December, 12:00–2:00pm