Outreach Volunteers

Would you like to help us raise the profile of Samaritans in the local community? 

Samaritans of Farnborough & District have been supporting our local community since 1978, working towards a world where fewer people die by suicide. We offer a safe place to talk if people are feeling emotionally distressed or are having a difficult time and need to talk things through in a confidential and safe environment.

We work hard to reach out to high risk groups to reduce the risk of suicide and are dedicated to working within our local community to promote our services, such as:

• Hospitals - our hospital team visits Frimley Park A&E on a Monday evening to support patients and staff (on hold for now).
• Schools - visiting local secondary schools to present assemblies based around themes of emotional health as well as delivering follow-up sessions on listening skills to smaller groups. We also attend freshers' fairs and events at colleges to share the work of Samaritans with students.
• Military - our volunteers attend health fairs and events with the British Army. We promote our services to both serving personnel and veterans as well as extending our services to their families providing emotional support to all who need it.
  
• The Homeless - we run drop-in sessions at local homeless shelters in Aldershot to offer emotional support and a non-judgmental ear to those who would like to talk.
• Local Companies - we visit local organisations and community groups and promote our 'Well-Being in the Workplace' programme
• Other organisations and community groups: in addition we share our work with other organisations and community groups on an ad-hoc basis to share our work. 

Volunteering at Samaritans of Farnborough & District is an incredibly rewarding experience. We have a team of over 100 volunteers, both listening, support and outreach. With an age range of early 20s to over 90, and volunteers from all walks of life, we’re a really varied group.

Skills

We are looking for people who have the same values as us:-

• Open-minded
• Empathetic
• Accepting
• Supportive
• Discreet
• Honest

Training and Support

The training you’ll receive at Farnborough & District Samaritans is thorough and will prepare you for your outreach work. We have a friendly, supportive training team who really take the time to address your needs so you get the best possible experience. In addition, you’ll have an encouraging mentor by your side and ongoing training throughout your time with us. We also organise talks from community members, such as the police, to help develop your understanding of local issues.  

Community Support

Farnborough & District Samaritans is filled with friendly faces, and you’re guaranteed a smile when you walk into the branch. There’s always somebody to chat to and, if you need a little support yourself, someone to give you a helping hand. We encourage a community spirit by hosting special events for volunteers, such as barbeques, tea parties and curry nights. If you’re looking for new friends, this is the perfect place to make them.