Volunteer role:
​FRESH - phone support service (ongoing recruitment)
Lived experience of struggling with self-harm is required*

"As a caring and professional person, it is satisfying being involved as a volunteer with Battle Scars who are a caring and professional charity"  

What is the FRESH project?
The FRESH project is an England-wide phone support service for adults (18+) who struggle with self-harm. We take both self-referrals and professionals referrals. The person referred gets a one-off phone call, with an optional follow up a month later, to provide a listening ear, suggestions, help with building strategies and signposting to our other services and to other relevant organisations. 

What are we looking for?
We are looking for people who have current or past lived experience of self-harm, are confident making informal phone calls and are willing to speak to strangers who may be struggling. Must be able to deal with potentially triggering phone calls (including details of self-harm methods, mention of suicidal ideation, plans or intention. All referrals are allocated by email. We expect volunteers to have a regularly used email address. Volunteers will be representing Battle Scars which must be done in a professional manner while sharing the Battle Scars ethos and values. 

​What commitment are we asking for? 
The calls are made between 10 and 6 Monday-Friday and we ask the volunteers to be available for at least one 3-hour shift. 

Does this role require a DBS check?
Yes, this role requires a DBS check. The cost is covered by Battle Scars. 

How do the volunteers benefit and what support do they get?
We value our volunteers and ensure they feel part of the team. Through volunteering with us, volunteers build on existing skills or develop new ones, they take advantage of their lived experience to help others and get a sense of purpose. We provide role specific training as well as opportunities of further training. Support is provided by the lead volunteer and the CEO.

What training do we provide?
Some training is compulsory for this role but we also offer optional extra training (e.g. self-harm, eating disorders, autism awareness etc.) 
​Compulsory (all training is virtual) - FRESH training, Safeguarding, Equality, Diversity & Inclusion

*Lived experience means that you actively self-harm, you are struggling with self-harm urges or you have struggled with the above in the past.

If you would like to apply, please select the application form. If you'd like more information, please contact the Battle Scars CEO.