Volunteering With Mental Health Charities - Any Experiences?

[Anarchy]

I lost my job back in June, fifth time in my career I've been made redundant (or at least fifth time my post has)

I'm looking to do some volunteering.

Does anyone have experience with volunteering with charities in Britain?

Which ones are actually active in helping people (I have met too many charity execs on safari in Africa,that masqueraded as conferences, not to be cynical, it's big business for hotels in Nairobi).

I'm in north east England at present

Any thoughts on the Samaritans? Mind? Other perhaps regional charities? Or ringing up the local psychie hospital to ask who does charity voluntary work?

Many thanks
@

 

[Purplemunchkin]

I used to be involved with the Samaritans (although they don't seem to very popular round here) and the branch I was at (south east so no good for you) was full of lovely people. They seem to be very good at sifting out the do-gooders that just don't 'get it' and think they need to fix people who call/e-mail/pop in.

My one concern would be for your well-being in terms of triggers and stressors, although there is always a need for back office assistance as well as front of house.

I am now involved with a local carer's group I was put in touch with through the local mental health team (back when they pretended to be interested).

Your local GP surgery might be able to give you some contacts? Or any local charity shops?

Hubby is a volunteer minibus driver, albeit for Age Concern. He loves it, and it has done his confidence the world of good.

Good luck with it!

 

[Changing4Best]

I volunteer at a place that takes care of unwed mothers. They collect used baby cloths for them, and teach them good parenting skills. I sort the donated cloths, storing the different sizes in marked containers, so that these can be easily found and given to them on short notice. It is not a glamorous job, but I know in my own small way I am helping them.

 

[Changing4Best]

PS. they also give mental health counscelling to them, that is where the mental health aspect comes in.

 

[illusionist]

I've volunteered with local health organisation charities but not in your neck of the woods. I'm not too keen on the bigger charities as I'd rather give my time to charities that have less funding....I looked them up and gave them a call.....they are usually very eager to take people on.

I found it to be a fantastic route for personal growth. ...good training which can make you question yourself ....I found it really good for learning boundaries with people and realising that boundaries are as good for them as they are for us....nothing better than encouraging someone to be independent and watch their confidence grow from strength to strength and telling them that they did it by themselves..they made the physical moves for change....very rewarding!

You also get a chance to gather certificates which may be of use to your future employment.

Just make sure that you continue self care, as at times it can really test you.

Good luck!