Monday 29 November 2010

it's a brave new world (I do believe in the light)





I heading home after attending an information evening at the Central London branch of the Samaritans.

It feels a bit weird blogging this for several reasons. Firstly, I've not posted for a while. Secondly, i can't help but feel a bit 'self-righteous' blogging such a thing. Thirdly, it's only me - hardly the most interesting of characters.

But, hey.

I'm going to try and get back into posting more - or at least more regularly.

As for this feeling 'self-righteous', I'll take that risk. I've been considering - actually, I've been looking for - volunteering opportunities for over a year now, and I think working with the Samaritans might offer the kind of challenges, flexibility and opportunities to really help fellow human beings on a one-to-one basis.

And I had no idea that not only do they need people to do the classic manning-of-phones, but also to visit schools, prisons, etc.

If you're accepted as a volunteer, you're asked to work three shifts a month: two daytime/evening shifts and at least one nighttime shift.

So. We'll see. Next step is to go to an assessment event, then what sounds like some pretty fluid, but solid training, before you're put on the phones.

The information hour was pretty full, which seemed to surprise everyone, considering the bitter cold, promised snow and tube strike. And it was fascinating that practically everyone in my group was also either training or considering training as a qualified counsellor.

The inner hippy in me was welling up with 'motions.

Nervous, excited and humbled so far.

I'll keep you posted...

(This blog post was powered by 30 Seconds To Mars. And ooh, look; I'm in Peckham already!)

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Location:Westminster