VOLUNTEER WITH US
We're looking for people who want to make a real difference to mental health support in Essex.
WHY VOLUNTEER?
Every week, people across Essex reach out to us because they're struggling but don't know where to turn. Your time could be the steady, human connection that helps them through.
Whether you're a trained counsellor looking for placement hours, or someone who simply wants to listen and support others, there's a role for you.
Full training provided
Ongoing supervision and support
Flexible hours that work for you
Make a genuine difference
VOLUNTEER ROLES
Reach Out For Mental Health is powered by volunteers. Whether you want to train as a counsellor, support someone through a regular phone call, or host a coffee group in your community — there's a role for you.
TELEPHONE BEFRIENDER
Make regular scheduled calls to clients who need someone to talk to. You'll be trained to listen without judgement and provide consistent, friendly support.
Requirements:
Good listening skills
Empathy and patience
Reliability and commitment
A few hours per week
No prior experience required — full training provided
COFFEE GROUP FACILITATOR
Our coffee groups provide a safe, informal space for adults who may be feeling isolated, low, or struggling with their mental health to connect with others.
Fancy running a coffee group in your area? Maybe you and a friend would like to host one together? It's informal, peer-led, and a brilliant way to give back.
Requirements:
Warm, approachable, and reliable
Good listening skills and ability to remain non-judgemental
Confidence in holding boundaries within a group setting
Ability to stay calm if someone becomes upset
Willingness to follow safeguarding procedures and guidance
Previous experience in support roles is helpful but not essential
Important to Know
This role supports people in the “middle space” — those who are struggling but not in crisis. Facilitators are not expected to manage risk or provide counselling.
STUDENT COUNSELLOR
Gain valuable placement hours while supporting adults with moderate mental health needs. You'll work within our 12-session model with professional case management.
Requirements:
Level 4+ counselling qualification
Current DBS check dated within the last 6 months/on the update service
Commitment to ethical practice
20 hours previous face to face experience
Professional supervision not provided
Please see our Student Placements page for full details.
VOLUNTEER QUALIFIED COUNSELLOR
We are seeking fully qualified counsellors to support our structured, short-term counselling service.
As a suicide prevention charity, we support adults experiencing moderate mental health difficulties, including those with suicidal thoughts or a history of suicidal ideation, where risk is assessed as manageable within a structured, non-crisis setting.
Requirements:
Fully qualified counsellor
Registered member of British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP)
Professional indemnity insurance
Current enhanced DBS check dated within the last 6 months/on the update service
Strong understanding of safeguarding and ethical practice
Confidence working with suicidal ideation within a managed, non-crisis framework
Ability to work within clear service boundaries and short-term intervention.
READY TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE?
Get in touch to find out more about volunteering with us. We'd love to hear from you.