Volunteer call takers:

We receive around 2,400 calls a year, the majority from victims or survivors of domestic violence or abuse, but we also help concerned friends or family members, those concerned about their behaviour to others and we receive many calls from professionals wishing to access information and other agency details often on behalf of clients/patients.

We are not a counselling line, although empathic listening does play a large part in taking calls. An information manual and training aimed at specific Helpline issues is provided for volunteers.

We are not a call centre. The line can be picked up on any landline or mobile number so volunteers can take calls while at home, work or wherever is suitable, (taking into account confidentiality issues).

We ask that volunteers offer a minimum of 2-3 hours a week on the line, undertake some online learning modules, attend two full days of initial training and also commit to attending support meetings once every eight weeks (held online and also in person). These meetings focus on ongoing training and finding out more about support agency services. They also offer an opportunity to talk through any issues or difficult calls that arise, meet other team members, be updated on current information and raise general awareness around domestic violence issues. There is also an annual review.

If you are interested in volunteering, please download and complete the application form here and e-mail it to Admin@hertsdomesticabusehelpline.org

Friends of the Helpline

One way you can support us is to become a ‘Friend of the Helpline’. Through the year Helpline holds several fundraising events and also awareness raising events meeting the public.  We always need volunteers who can perhaps offer short periods of time to help with these events both in organising and staffing.

If you are interested in becoming a friend of the Helpline you can view the Friends leaflet on our Resources tab.
Please contact our Friends Administrator on Friends@hertsdomesticabusehelpline.org