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Victim Support needs people from all walks of like to
train as volunteers. We look for men and women who
are good listeners, who can gain the confidence and
trust of the victims they help. While there are many
common reactions to crime, everyone's experience is
unique and our volunteers need to understand and
respect individual needs, backgrounds and cultures.
Anyone over 18 can volunteer - young people are very
much needed in Victim Support.
All Victim Support volunteers complete an initial
training course, run
locally, which prepares them for their work. Topics
include the effects of crime, communication skills
and preparation for supporting victims in different
settings. Further training is given in court
procedures, compensation for victims and the effects
of particular crimes.
Although Victim Support is staffed for the most part
by volunteers, we aim for the highest professional
standards and operate eithin a code of practice
which helps us acheive these. We attach a great
importance to training and ensure that all our
volunteers are properly equipped to help victims to
these standards.
(For details of the given, please select the
'training' link on the left
hand side)
Initially we expect you to give a few hours a week to
training, usually on evenings or weekens. Then we
ask you to give two or three hours a week to support
work - home visits, office appointments, telephone
support or support at court. The co-ordinator will
help you decide which suits you best. Victim Support
is a short term service so you won't normally provide
long term support to victims. You'll also attend
regular support and information meetings with other
volunteers, as well as getting support directly from
the co-ordinator.
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The essence of Victim Support is giving personal help to
people in need; for most (volunteers) this is the principal
reward. You will also receive training and support, meet
new people and deal with the situations you have never
experienced before. Our training is designed to help you
learn about yourself as well as others, and you may find
that you develop skills and qualities you never knew you
possessed. You will not be paid, but we will cover your
expenses as a volunteer, including travel.
There is real satisfaction to be had in being a volunteer
with Victim Support. To find out more about what our
work could offer you, contact us at the number below.
(There are also physical rewards, as in this picture
where Joyce received a silver badge for her 10 years service)
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If after reading this you are interested in volunteering select
Apply On-line
from the links on the left side of the page.
Alternatively, contact us at:
Victim Support North Ayrshire
Cooper's Close
158a High Street
Irvine
KA12 8AN
Tel: 01294 277040
Fax: 01294 277040
E-mail Us
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