Childline Volunteer Counsellor - no experience required, just enthusiasm

Childline
VO103473

Childline Volunteer Counsellors are on the front line protecting Scotland’s kids from abuse and supporting them through all the issues facing young people today. In return for a commitment of 26 shifts per year, our volunteers receive the most intensive and dedicated training and support available from any charity in the UK. We are looking for dedicated and passionate advocates for children and their safety. In return for your commitment, we provide twelve weekly training sessions and dedicated support with welfare and development throughout your volunteering journey. If you’re a good listener (or want to get better) and have a passion for supporting young people, Childline wants to hear from you.

Childline Volunteer Counsellors provide free, confidential emotional support to children and young people under 19 via phone, live chat, or secure email.

Role

Provide confidential emotional support to children and young people.
Support via phone, online chat, or secure email.
Shifts are typically 4 hours weekly, including briefing and debriefing.
Volunteer at one of 12 regional bases or from home via Virtual Base/email service.

Training & Commitment

12-week induction training, with weekly sessions (approximately 3&ndash;3.5 hours per week) and self-study.
Ongoing peer support and supervised shifts with briefings and debriefs.
Regular one-to-one and group supervision.
Minimum 1-year commitment, with approximately 26&ndash;52 shifts per year.

Who are they looking for?

Passion for supporting children and young people.
Empathy, perceptiveness, and strong listening skills.
Ability to think on your feet and be emotionally resilient.
Able to work effectively in a team environment.

Safeguarding & Requirements

Must be 16 years or older.
Enhanced DBS/PVG check and two references covering the last 5 years required.
For email or Virtual Base roles, a suitable laptop/PC and secure IT setup is needed.

Support & Community

Robust support system, including supervisor support and debrief opportunities.
Large volunteer community, providing opportunities for peer support and personal growth.
Volunteers report high levels of personal development and emotional fulfilment.

Why it matters

Childline operates 24/7, offering lifeline support to children every day of the year.
Demand for support can rise significantly during certain times, highlighting the need for volunteers.

How to Apply

If you are interested, please click the ‘Apply’ button below (available when logged in and registered). You will then be contacted by the coordinator by email or phone call. If you have not heard back after 5 working days, the first step is to contact the organisation with the contact details provided. You could also check your junk/spam folder for your emails, just in case the response is there. If that doesn’t work out, then please feel free to contact Volunteer Glasgow.

What happens next?

Join a Volunteer Information Meeting (online or in-person) to learn more.
Complete the application form including references and safeguarding checks.
Attend an interview (group style, either in-person or virtual).
Complete training and begin volunteering once cleared.