Through remote working we are able to offer those living in regional communities the opportunity to volunteer with Lifeline. This opportunity is currently open to people living in or around the Upper Hunter and New England North West Regions. Being a Lifeline Crisis Supporter can be a highly rewarding experience with many benefits.
First and foremost, as a Crisis Supporter, you will have the opportunity to make a positive impact on people's lives, providing much-needed emotional support and helping individuals in times of crisis.
This can be a very fulfilling experience that allows you to give back to your community in a meaningful way. In addition, being a Lifeline Crisis Supporter can help you develop important skills such as active listening, empathy, and communication, which are invaluable not only in this role but also in many other areas of life.
Volunteering with Lifeline can help you connect with like-minded individuals and foster a sense of community. Overall, being a Lifeline Crisis Supporter can be a personally and professionally enriching experience that enables you to make a difference in the world.
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What is involved in becoming a remote crisis supporter?
Working remotely as a crisis support worker with Lifeline can be a great option for those who value flexibility and convenience.
Being able to take calls from the comfort of your own home means that you can avoid the time and expense of commuting and have more control over your schedule. This is especially beneficial for those who live in regional areas, as it allows them to volunteer without travelling long distances.
To work remotely, you will need to have access to:
- A newish laptop and a strong internet connection (NBN is best).
- A quiet space to take calls.
It is important to note that support will be provided for every shift, with an on-call supervisor available to offer guidance and assistance as needed.
Overall, working remotely with Lifeline can be a rewarding and flexible way to make a difference in the lives of those in crisis while also maintaining a healthy work-life balance.
Crisis Supporter Training and Commitment
Comprehensive training is provided to our volunteer crisis supporters, will ensure you are qualified to offer a high standard of crisis support that keeps people safe. You’ll complete a training period to give you all the expertise you will need to navigate crisis intervention successfully and empathetically.
Crisis Supporters commit to volunteering four hours per fortnight at their local Lifeline Centre after they complete their initial training.
Lifeline Australia RTO 88036 is regulated by the Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA). Lifeline Direct Centres deliver the accredited training CHCSS00113 Crisis Support Skill Set on behalf of Lifeline Australia RTO 88036.
The accredited training includes the three Units of Competency listed below:
- CHCCCS003 Increase the safety of individuals at risk of suicide
- CHCCCS019 Recognise and respond to crisis situations
- CHCCCS028 Provide client-centred support to people in crisis
Once you have successfully completed the training for the above Units of Competency, you will have become a Lifeline Accredited Crisis Supporter.
To obtain these units of competency, this course consists of 3 stages over a 12-month period as outlined in the CSWT Pathway.
For further information, please read the RTO Compliance Manual here.
More information.
What is required to become a volunteer Crisis Supporter?
- Good listening skills
- Empathy, compassion & commitment
- A desire to make a positive difference
- Time and investment for your training - Please be aware that attendance at all training dates is compulsory to complete the course.
- A minimum of 4 hours per fortnight available to volunteer once your training is complete
- A police check and Working with Children Check/Working with Vulnerable People Check (WWCC/WWVP) relevant to your state/territory. Please note that these checks are at your own cost
- Transport to and from your nearest Lifeline Centre
- Basic computer skills and access to a reliable computer and internet for the training
- Student contribution towards training costs
The Crisis Supporter Journey - What does this look like?
A CRISIS SUPPORTER WILL:
TRAIN
Once accepted, you will complete training to become a qualified Crisis Supporter. The training is delivered by Lifeline and you will be supported along the way.
RESPOND
You will respond to people in need of support via phone, from your local Lifeline Centre.
Crisis Supporters help answer calls from those reaching out for someone to talk to via our 13 11 14 crisis support line.
LISTEN
You will listen to what’s going on for the person who has contacted you, hear their story and sit with their distress.
EMPOWER
You will support the person to identify their next steps and encourage them to generate and own the action. If needed, you will create a safety plan with them. In this role you will have a real impact on the life of those you support.
Read our Crisis Supporter Blog: Three Part Series
Read more about the role of a Crisis Supporter on our recent three part blog series:
Volunteering with Lifeline as a Crisis Supporter - An Introduction
Volunteering with Lifeline as a Crisis Supporter - The Basics
Volunteering with Lifeline as a Crisis Supporter - The Training
