Do you have what it takes to be a Crisis Responder with YouMatter?

Requirements:

You can volunteer from anywhere in the world, however you need to have a stable internet connection and access to a personal computer to log into our systems. All your shifts must be conducted in a private space, away from distractions or other people that can see your screen. You will volunteer for a minimum of two hours every week and agree that you can commit to a minimum term of volunteering, usually one year. We strive to offer an around the clock service, however, we cannot guarantee Crisis Responder hours and you might need to take shifts at varying times to ensure you meet your hours each week. You will be required to obtain, and self-fund, a local criminal background check. You must disclose any criminal convictions or cautions during your application process. All appointments are subject to background checks and references being obtained. Crisis Responders are voluntary positions and you will not be paid for any work undertaken with YouMatter. You understand that we cannot reimburse any costs, such as the purchase of computers or background checks.

Training:

We encourage applications from a range of both personal and professional backgrounds. Regardless of what you're bringing to our team, everyone is required to undertake our in-house crisis intervention training course in order to become certified in the intervention we deploy across the YouMatter service. Training will be completed remotely and on the applicants own time. You can use our professional qualification to show to friends and family, or even an employer! Following our core training program, you will have to go through an exam, alongside mock chats before being approved to start answering live crisis support calls through our chat software.

Reality:

While this work can be incredibly rewarding, it is important you understand the reality of talking to people in crisis. Crisis Responders will take chats from people experiencing a suicide crisis, and may be the last person a chatter speaks with before ending their lives. You understand that we cannot send medical assistance for those that attempt to, or end their lives. You will talk to people who have experienced, or perpetrated abuse of all natures. We might not be able to report crimes that have, or will, take place. We talk to people at their worst and may not know the outcome of those situations. You will talk to people from across the globe, who might be facing a range of different social and economic problems. Chatters may hold their own beliefs and values and we are here to respect those. You are not permitted to give chatters advice of any kind and are simply here to listen.

Progression:

YouMatter offers a range of progression and development opportunities for those seeking to expand and grow. All our shifts are staffed by trained, certified Supervisors. We are constantly growing our reach, so keen to develop regional leaders to support us in this development. You are given ongoing training and development opportunities, alongside the opportunity to join a supportive community of people who are all driven by the same values to provide support to those in need.