Become a volunteer
As Anxiety UK is run by and for those with anxiety, if you have lived experience of anxiety and would like to volunteer, we’d love to hear from you.
We know that if you’ve been living with anxiety, stress and/or anxiety-based depression, voluntary work can be a very big step and there are many barriers that might deter you from volunteering.
However, we truly understand anxiety and provide a supportive environment for our volunteers.
Helpline volunteer
About the role
Volunteering as a helpline volunteer at Anxiety UK is a rewarding and varied experience for anyone interested in working within the field of mental health and looking to learn skills in customer service and administration.
You will be the first point of call for people taking the first step in seeking help for anxiety. As a helpline volunteer, you will provide people with support and information on getting help; conveying the message that anxiety is both manageable and treatable.
Please be aware this role is remote so you will be volunteering from your home. We have software that allows voice calls to come through to your computer plus an online system to respond to emails & texts.
Requirements for the role
- Ability to communicate clearly and effectively
- Ability to provide empathetic listening (not counselling) to callers requiring support
- Have an understanding of/interest in anxiety disorders
- Be reliable and committed to the role
- Provide information on anxiety, Anxiety UK services and related issues
- Must be over the age of 18.
- Have a Windows or Mac system (i.e. not a tablet) to run the call software on
- Have a quiet space to answer calls confidentially
- Reliably commit to a set shift (same time each week) of 4 hours between the hours of 09:30-17:30 Mon-Fri
Please note that due to the time investment incurred in training volunteers, we require a minimum commitment of 4 hours per week for at least 6 months.
Once you have submitted your application you will receive a message of confirmation on screen. Please do be patient as we receive a high volume of applications. If successful, our team will be in contact usually within a month. If you have not heard from us within a month your application has been unsuccessful.
Helpline volunteer
Benefits of volunteering on the helpline
Feel good factor of helping those in need |
Yes |
Full training and support provided |
Yes |
References available |
Yes, once 3 months served (available up to one year post volunteering) |
Discount to our membership |
Yes, once 3 months served |
Access to therapy at relevant fee tier without prior membership |
Yes, once 3 months served |
Regular opportunities for training and CPD |
Yes |
Expand experience of working in mental health |
Yes |
Reimbursement of reasonable expenses |
Yes |
Access to external supervision |
Yes |
National Participation Group Member
About the role
Our national participation group is a group of volunteers who volunteer their time in a variety of ways, helping with tasks such as:
- Undertaking book, app or other product reviews
- Attending events
- Contributing to media requests
- Providing feedback on new or existing Anxiety UK services
Testimonials
It has been a wonderful experience being a part of the AUK participation group. I have written some books reviews, and there are also opportunities to speak to a broader audience on anxiety and how to destigmatize it. ~ Paul Gurney, Anxiety UK Participation Group Member
I joined Anxiety UK Participation to contribute to a cause that I care about, make a difference and use my skills in a productive way. The task I particularly enjoyed is beta testing and reviewing applications ~ Grace Sanusi, Anxiety UK Participation Group Member
I have loved all of the tasks I have been a part of so far, it helps me learn more from a professional point of view and also makes me feel good to know that I am helping other people with anxiety. ~ Gemma Lupton, Anxiety UK Participation Group Member
