Carly’s #DoGoodFeelGood story: the skills I’ve learnt volunteering are invaluable

Carly started volunteering for Shout in lockdown, wanting to help those struggling at such a difficult time. She uses the skills she has developed in training and volunteering day-to-day, finding them invaluable in her professional life. Inspired by volunteering for Shout, Carly soon starts training to become a Clinical Psychologist.

What made you decide to become a Shout Volunteer?

I started volunteering in lockdown. I knew that it wouldn’t be easy for many people and I had so much more free time on my hands, I wanted to be there for those struggling at such a difficult time.

What do you find most rewarding about being a Shout Volunteer?

The most rewarding part of being a Shout Volunteer is realising after each shift that I’ve helped so many people. Looking back at the feedback I’ve received from texters shows me that I’m making an impact on those I speak to.

What are some of the challenges you've experienced?

Sometimes texters do not know what they want to gain from a conversation with Shout. This can be challenging, as it can be difficult to know how to help them. As a Shout Volunteer, you learn to recognise that texters may just want someone to speak to, to feel less lonely in times of need. The longer I volunteer for Shout, the more I can recognise these texters and work with them to find their next steps.

How do you find volunteering for a digital organisation?

I absolutely love volunteering for a digital organisation! The flexibility of shift times really encourages me to get on the platform and help texters whenever I have a spare moment. Having the live online support from Clinical Supervisors and other volunteers is amazing and makes you feel as though you are never alone.

Have you been able to use any of the training or skills you've learned in your day-to-day life?

I recently completed a counselling course, and as part of my assessment had to film myself counselling someone. In this video, I used many of the skills that I developed in the Shout Volunteer training, including reflection, building rapport and compassion. I also use these skills in my personal life when speaking to those around me.

Volunteering for Shout has opened so many doors for me and has shown me how rewarding it is to help others. I’ve been inspired to undertake a Psychology course in September, to hopefully become a Clinical Psychologist!

Would you recommend becoming a Shout Volunteer? Why?

Shout also provides great opportunities for development - I recently became a Clinical Practitioner on the platform, helping texters at peak times when the service is busier.

I love being part of the Shout community - everyone is incredibly supportive.