Becoming a Volunteer with E.D.S.
Eating Disorders Support relies entirely on the support of volunteers to provide a help-line, email support and a self help group for those with an eating disorder.
Can you offer some of your time to help and support those who are experiencing difficulties in relation to food?
If you are interested, but wish to know more about what being a volunteer might involve, you may find the questions and answers below helpful. Alternatively, please call us on 01494 793223 or email us at support@eatingdisorderssupport.co.uk
Q. What will I be asked to do?
A. There are a variety of roles a volunteer can take.
1) Work on the telephone help line.
2) Be part of the self help support group team.
3) Join our team of fundraisers.
Q. Do I need to have any special skills?
A. Help line and support group volunteers do need to have an understanding of or some training in listening skills. It is helpful to have some experience, personal or professional, in understanding the issues that may cause someone with an eating disorder to contact us for support.
Q. Will I be given any training before I begin working?
A. Yes we offer an induction and training in the chosen role. You would initially be working alongside an experienced volunteer. We offer additional ongoing training throughout the year.
Q. How do you support your volunteers?
A. All our help-line and self help group volunteers are given ongoing supervision. This takes place in a group that meets for 1.5 hours per month. The supervisor is an experienced and qualified counsellor and trainer.
Q. How do I apply?
A. Please telephone 01494 793223 and speak to a volunteer or leave a message on our answer phone stating you name and telephone number and we will get back to you as soon as possible. Alternatively you may wish to contact via email which is support@eatingdisorderssupport.co.uk You will then be sent an application form and subsequently be invited along for an interview.