Volunteers operate the helplines, which are open on Wednesday and Friday evenings from 7pm until 10pm. Each volunteer persons the lines twice a month, answering calls from women and men who have experienced sexual violaton/violence. The helplines play a key role in providing support, information and counselling.
Volunteers are selected and recruited on an annual basis. Previous experience of counselling/telephone helpline work is not necessary as training is provided. Prospective volunteers are required to complete an application form, provide two references and attend a training and selection programme. All volunteers are 'police checked' at enhanced level. It is not necessary to be a survivor of sexual violation in order to volunteer with PARCS.
The dates for the 2008 training and selection are:
Please note that the training/selection process consists of 4 days. Successful applicatants will be required to attend an additional day. For further information or an application form, contact Kim Hosier on 023 9266 9514 or Sal Swann on 023 9266 9515.
PARCS aims to provide a high level of on-going support, supervision and training. Group supervision for telephone work takes place fortnightly on Tuesday evenings between 7.30 and 9.30pm. Regular training and team-building, to support the work of volunteers, is provided throughout the year, usually at weekends.
Volunteers who want to work face to face with clients are required to undertake a further training and selection process within PARCS. Face-to-face work is supported by the provision of fortnightly individual supervision. Please note: Face-to-face hours undertaken may be counted toward counselling hours required, for most counselling/psychotherapy trainings.
PARCS works within clearly defined policies and procedures including:
