Outline is the only information and advice line for lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans. people in Surrey and we are looking for your help. The helpline operates on Tuesday and Sunday evenings between 7.30 and 10.00pm.

Outline is run entirely by volunteers from the most diverse backgrounds. We are actively looking for more volunteers and accept applications all year round.

We are also very keen to re-engage with former volunteers who were previously unable to give the necessary time to the organisation as their circumstances may have now changed.

 

Why volunteer?

Would you like to...

• try out new types of work
• make a difference to people's lives in your community
• get experience that looks good on your CV
• learn new skills that could lead to a new job
• get free training
• meet new people
• get satisfaction from doing something useful!

Volunteers want to make a difference to the community, especially the gay community. Most of us have been there and know something of the issues involved in coming out, unravelling our feelings about our sexuality, relationship problems, sexual health and all the other things we have to deal with. Sometimes, it isn’t easy. No-one can sort out our problems for us, but the Outline volunteers are trained to create the right sort of atmosphere and with time and empathy are prepared to talk anything through with callers.

All people who are interested in working on the helpline will be interviewed and then take part in a full training programme. We accept applications all year round. The training group covers topics including: listening and basic counselling skills, sexuality and coming out.

Calls to the line range from people needing directions to the nearest gay pub to those who need support in telling their friends and family that they are gay.

Volunteering can also be a good way of meeting other likeminded people and making friends.

What does Outline need?

Committed, reliable volunteers who are prepared to spare a little of their precious time in order to support others from the LGBT community.

What can I do for Outline?

Outline is run entirely by volunteers. There are a number of different volunteer roles available. All of them are necessary to ensure that the charity operates efficiently and effectively.

Here are some of the areas where you can help

Telephone Helpline / Written Support
Answer calls on a telephone helpline as well as Signpost and refer service users responding to letters/emails/faxes from services users. We ask that all volunteers agree to work at least one 3 hour shift per month.
More information on the training we provide for helpline volunteers

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Resources Support
Help with compilation of helpline rota and letter writing. We also need help with identifying new sources of information, maintaining and updating reference material, identifying relevant websites and analysing statistics, producing and sending out information packs and application forms, arranging selection interviews, planning training programmes and maintaining files.
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IT Support
Duties including maintaining the database, designing/updating website, providing IT support and delivering training for volunteers.
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Public Relations
Duties include creating an advertising strategy, co-ordinating an advertising campaign, designing advertising/promotional leaflets and liaising with media to promote Outline's services.
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Events Planning
Duties include organising fundraising/social & entertainment evenings, building a database of venues/entertainers/supporters & guests, obtaining raffle prizes and seeking donations/sponsorship in kind.
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Counsellor
Sole duty is to provide counselling support to service users who will be referred from the helpline.
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