Self-Harm Network Volunteer – Live Chat (Penumbra / Self-Harm Network Scotland)

Penumbra Self-Harm Recovery Network Scotland
VO104905

Use your lived experience to support others through safe, compassionate online chat — from home, with full training and supervision.

Opportunity Description
The Self-Harm Network Scotland (SHNS) is delivered by Penumbra, providing compassionate, non-judgemental support to people affected by self-harm.
As a Self-Harm Network Volunteer – Live Chat, you’ll use your unique understanding (gained from managing your own mental health) to help support the delivery of SHNS online web chat. You’ll be part of a supportive team helping people who self-harm who may really need someone to talk to.
This role is home-based, and you’ll be fully supported through training, induction and supervision.
What you’ll be doing
Supporting the delivery of the SHNS online web-chat and supporting people who self-harm who really need someone to talk to
Engaging with support and supervision, and practising reflection
Contributing lived experience and insights that help inform SHNS approach, data and the Scottish Government’s self-harm strategy development
Attending promotional events with the SHNS team (where appropriate)
Committing to putting Penumbra’s values into practice
Working within boundaries and confidentiality
Upholding Penumbra’s Code of Practice
Letting the team know of any changes in circumstances that may affect volunteering, so support can be offered
What we’re looking for
People with lived experience who want to support others in a safe and compassionate way
Volunteers who are able to work within boundaries and confidentiality
A reliable, respectful and reflective approach
Confidence volunteering as part of a team
Aged 18 or over
Support You’ll Receive
Penumbra will provide a full package of support to help you feel confident and safe in your volunteering role, including:
Full training programme (Self-Harm Awareness, Text-based Support, and Escalation & Safeguarding)
Individual support and supervision
Reflection and learning opportunities
A robust induction, including online induction and shadowing
Ongoing guidance as part of a supportive team environment
Commitment & Timing
This role involves completing the online recruitment and training pathway before starting live chat volunteering.
Key dates (online):
Interviews: 17th & 18th February 2026
Self-Harm Awareness Training: Tuesday 3rd March (6.00pm – 9.00pm)
Text-based Support Training: Saturday 14th March (9.30am – 5.00pm)
Escalation & Safeguarding Training: Tuesday 17th March (6.00pm – 9.00pm)

Live Chat runs 7 evenings a week (6.00pm–10.00pm)
Volunteers commit to regular evening shift(s) within these hours (agreed with the team)
You’ll complete online recruitment, training, induction and shadowing before starting
Key dates for interviews/training are listed in the advert (all online)
After training:
Successful candidates will begin onboarding, including:
1 hour online induction
Shadowing before starting the role
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 on your emails just in case the response is there. If that doesn’t work out, then please feel free to contact Volunteer Glasgow on [email protected]
OR Apply here: https://isw.changeworknow.co.uk/penumbra/vms/e/careers/positions/bfTVoEfZbmcAQCy5UW2Std
Application Process (What happens next?)
Submit an application form online
Shortlisted candidates will be invited to interview (17th & 18th February 2026)
Shortlisted candidates complete required online training sessions
Successful candidates complete onboarding, induction and shadowing
Volunteers provide 2 references and complete a PVG check

Experience required

• Aged 18 or over
• Good communication and excellent listening skills
• Open to supporting a diverse range of people with a non-judgemental approach
• A kind, caring and empathetic person with a positive and hopeful attitude
• Reliable and respectful
• Ability to reflect and build on experience and ask for additional support if required
• Confidence in volunteering as part of a team

Travel details

This is a volunteering from home role, so no travel is required for live chat delivery.
(Occasional promotional events may take place, depending on the service’s needs.)