‘I know I’ve made a difference’: Sophie’s Volunteering Story

Shout Volunteer Sophie has been volunteering with us for more than four years, and hopes to continue for many more. In this blog, Sophie shares how digital volunteering for a 24/7 organisation has opened the door to new opportunities, helped her develop her active listening skills and given her the chance to support people in crisis.

What made you decide to become a Shout Volunteer?

I've always felt passionate about the fact that both physical and mental health are of equal importance to our overall wellbeing. The stigma around mental health has undoubtedly changed over the years but I wanted to be part of an organisation that allows people to be supported without judgement - no matter what they are going through. We all have mental health. When I came across Shout on Instagram, every part of their mission aligned to my values and I was incredibly grateful to have the opportunity to train as a Shout Volunteer. The training and onboarding process couldn't have been more supportive and I learnt so much as I completed the mandatory training ahead of moving into my volunteering role.

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

When I finish my shift, I know I've made a difference. The outcome of a conversation is not always the same, but being there with someone in their time of need will never not make a difference. The staff and volunteers on the platform are incredibly supportive and there's a real sense of community and shared pride, it's amazing to be surrounded by such inspiring people from all walks of life.

What are some of the challenges you've experienced?

Naturally, some conversations are more difficult than others and sometimes conversations can be cut short, but we have incredible support on the platform from our supervisors, so we never face a challenge alone.

How do you find volunteering for a digital-based organisation?

Volunteering for a digital-based organisation allows me greater flexibility - as Shout is a 24-hour service, I can easily adapt my shift pattern to work around my life and full time job.

Have you been able to use any of the training or skills you've developed as a Shout Volunteer in your day-to-day and/or professional life?

Yes, being a Shout Volunteer has helped me to develop my active listening. Active listening is such an important skill to develop in both personal and professional life and I believe it has enabled me to connect with people on a deeper level, I'm also able to remain calm while supporting people in crisis and I've found this to be helpful in both professional and personal life.

Would you recommend becoming a Shout Volunteer?

I would absolutely recommend becoming a Shout Volunteer, being a part of Shout is so rewarding and the flexibility of volunteering means it can work around your lifestyle. I've been with Shout for four years now and I hope to be a part of Shout for many years to come.