Talking Together
Talking Together is our befriending project, connecting people through weekly telephone calls that can help to reduce loneliness, build friendships, and provide support for mental wellbeing.
Over the last few years, rates of depression have doubled. One of the major causes of depression is loneliness; Talking Together gives adults who may be feeling isolated, anxious or depressed the opportunity to speak regularly to volunteers about their concerns, fears and issues.
Each week you can receive a call from your designated volunteer for a friendly chat, and share how you are feeling in a safe, supportive and confidential way.
To speak to a member of our team, or to discuss the other ways we can support your mental health, call us on 01702 213134.
We need Befriending Volunteers
Just one hour per week can make a huge difference, and we’ll support you every step of the way. Volunteers will receive full training, including the accredited Mental Health First Aid qualification, and regular support from our project co-ordinator. You must have good listening skills, which will be enhanced through training.
The great thing about being a Talking Together volunteer is that it can work around your lifestyle. Schedule calls at a time convenient for you, and take a break when you’re not available!
We welcome those with a background in counselling, mental health support, those with lived experience of mental health issues, and people looking to develop their skills and experience in this area.
If you are interested in becoming a Talking Together volunteer, please read the information and job description below, and email volunteers@trustlinks.org or call 01702 213134.
Please note: Volunteers will be required to provide befriending and listening support to adults (via telephone or video messaging) in Southend. Befriendees may be experiencing mental health challenges, particularly anxiety or depression and as a result of social isolation. You must also have good listening skills and be able to manage boundaries.
To see the full Befriender volunteer job description, please click here. Or to find out more about volunteering with Southend’s leading mental health charity, click here.
