IRELAND’S only 24-hour listening service for children, ISPCC Childline, is now recruiting volunteers in Limerick. An information evening for anyone interested in finding out more about volunteering with Childline will take place at the ISPCC Childline office, 115 O’Connell Street, Limerick City, on Wednesday July 18th July at 7pm.
Every year, over 380,000 calls are made to Childline’s phone line, live text and webchat services. Children call Childline for many reasons; they might just want to talk to someone, or may be lonely, upset, worried or may have experienced trauma or abuse. When children contact Childline, they are seeking a listening ear and often feel that they have nowhere else to turn.
The free, anonymous and confidential Childline service is staffed by a team of volunteers and staff members who train and supervise volunteers to ensure a consistent and high quality service to children and young people. Volunteers who help Childline listen to children do not need any prior qualifications. They receive comprehensive ongoing training and support before they take their first call and for the duration of their time as a Childline volunteer. All Childline volunteers are trained to listen to and empower young people.
An excellent team atmosphere and spirit of camaraderie and peer support prevails at each Childline office throughout the country. Childline volunteers complete weekly four-hour shifts and facilitate Childline’s 24-hour phone line, live text and webchat services. References are available to volunteers upon completion of commitment.
Childline Regional Supervisor, Limerick, Danielle Carmody, said: “the Childline training is a comprehensive training course that equips volunteers with the skills to deliver a quality service to children. All Childline volunteers are trained in active listening skills and child-centred practice. Volunteers receive ongoing training and support throughout the year.”
Childline volunteer Lorraine said: “I have volunteered for Childline for the last three years because there is nothing more fulfilling that knowing you have helped a child. Without Childline, these children may not have anyone to listen to them but Childline is always there. Being a volunteer in Childline is such an enjoyable and rewarding experience.”
If you would like more information on becoming a Childline volunteer and helping the vital service listen to children and young people across Ireland 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, see ispcc.ie/volunteer, email Danielle at Danielle.Carmody@ispcc.ie or call the ISPCC Childline office in Limerick on 061 400 077.
