Helpline Volunteer

About us

Age UK is the country's leading charity dedicated to helping everyone make the most of later life. The over-60s is the fastest-growing group in society and there are more of us than ever before. Ageing is not an illness, but it can be challenging. At Age UK we provide services and support at a national and local level to inspire, enable and support older people. We stand up and speak for all those who have reached later life, and also protect the long-term interests of future generations..

Location: Remote

What is The Silver Line Helpline?

The Silver Line Helpline is the only free 24/7 helpline in the UK for older people over the age of 55 who might feel lonely and isolated. It's open 365 days a year.

The Silver Line Helpline offers friendship and support to people in many ways: through signposting to other services, by offering a friendly chat at any time day or night or referrals to other Age UK Services. The Silver Line Helpline is a crucial service and is often the first point of contact for older people who need support.

What might I do as a Helpline Volunteer?

As a Silver Line Helpline volunteer, you might:

• act as the first point of contact for incoming calls from older people, handling the calls sensitively and professionally
• be led by the caller - empathising, being non-judgemental and offering a friendly listening ear
• signpost to other relevant trusted services, offer a friendly chat day or night, and refer to other Age UK services if required
• ensure that relevant data is captured after each call
• escalate any concerns via the appropriate channels and seek support when needed.

What's expected of me as a volunteer?

We are looking for people with a willingness to listen with empathy, understanding and without judgement. You will be acting as a first point of contact for older people who may be vulnerable, isolated or lonely. It's important that calls are handled in a way that respects the individual and reflects the values of The Silver Line Helpline.

We'd also expect you to:

• understand the need for professionalism and confidentiality at all times
• be IT literate with access to a PC, laptop, or tablet at home
• have excellent communication skills
• commit to volunteer for no less than 4 hours a week (Monday – Sunday 7am – 10pm) and for a minimum of 12 months.

How am I supported? Signing up

If you have any questions during the sign up process, email our volunteer team on helpline.volunteering@thesilverline.org.uk

Training

We provide training at the start of your role to ensure you feel confident and well-prepared before you begin taking calls. You'll also receive ongoing support from The Silver Line Helpline volunteer team.

Support

Live online support is provided by the helpline team to give you feedback and advice, and your team will also provide group or 1-2-1 support during the first 4 weeks via debrief sessions to answer any queries or questions.Volunteers can always book one of the group support calls and these are often themed or focus on particular topics and can be especially useful.

Safety

We protect the safety of volunteers by using a virtual call centre, so you don't need to use your personal telephone number and calls will not cost you anything. The volunteer team is available Monday to Friday 9am - 5pm, with Team Leaders there to look after you on shift 24/7.

Job Type: Volunteer

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Day shift
• Every weekend
• Monday to Friday
• Weekend availability
• Weekends only

Work Location: Remote