The UK’s integrative cancer care charity■Helpline 0870 163 2990

Helpline Volunteers

We are looking for self-motivated and compassionate individuals to help deliver our Helpline service and make a difference to the lives of anyone affected by cancer.

Role Outline – Helpline Volunteer

We are looking for self-motivated and compassionate individuals to help deliver our Helpline service and make a difference to the lives of anyone affected by cancer.

The Helpline offers those with cancer a chance to share their feelings and experiences with someone who has empathy for what they are going through. Helpline Volunteers create a safe and welcoming environment, listen, providing emotional support and signposting onto further help and information.

No special qualifications are needed for this role, but experience of cancer either personally or in a carer/close role, and access to a telephone in a comfortable, quiet setting is essential.

"As a Yes to Life helpline volunteer, answering the call is not just about providing information; it's about understanding. Every conversation is an opportunity to offer comfort and a reassuring voice in times of uncertainty. Together, we navigate the path to hope, ensuring that no one faces the challenges alone. Being a helpline volunteer isn't just a role; it's a commitment to being ready to support and uplift those who reach out, reminding them that we are here for them."

Skills and experience needed

Personal experience of cancer
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
Ability to maintain professional boundaries
A well-developed ‘listening ear’
Ability to empathise with people and not to over-sympathise
Ability to provide approved information, not advice
Awareness of the importance of confidentiality
Ability to manage your own experiences and support needs
Ability to communicate with people from different backgrounds in a non-judgmental way

What will you do?

Provide a safe and supportive environment for those with cancer or those connected to someone with cancer
Log all conversations using our system. This ensures the robustness of our support, demonstrates how effective the helpline service is, and is essential for the advancement of the service
Share approved information with the caller
Report back on Helpline activity
Act in line with our Volunteer Policies and Code of Conduct

Time Commitment

You will need to be able to commit to this role for a minimum period of 6 months.

Commit to a minimum of a 3 hour shift per week, we will agree a routine time and day of the week for calls to be diverted to you. This is a remote working role, based in the UK.

Rota availability

We need volunteers to cover the following shifts:

10am – 1pm

1pm – 4pm

4pm – 7pm

7pm – 9pm

Training, Support and Expenses

You will be required to attend online induction training and have access to ongoing online training to support you in your role.

How to apply

Please fill in the form below and we will be in touch.

Successful candidates are invited to attend an online interview and are required to attend a 1-day induction training session before starting in post.

Helpline Volunteers