About Us

Childline volunteers are there to listen to & support young people as they open up about whatever is worrying them, whether it’s bullying, abuse, self-harm or family relationships.

What you’ll do

You’ll volunteer in our Leeds Childline base, offering counselling support to children and young people over the phone or through our 1-2-1 online chat. Your supervisor will help you develop and evaluate your counselling skills. After your initial training, you will be able to help young people as well as identify when a child or young person may be at risk, but don’t worry a supervisor will be on hand to give you plenty of support.

What you’ll get

You’ll receive training sessions over 12 weeks to prepare you for the role. When you start your regular shifts, a supervisor will be around all times to support you. Every shift includes a briefing and debriefing alongside other volunteers. Supervisors will also give you regular one-to-one support and group supervisions.

What we’ll need from you

Signing up to be a Childline counsellor is a big commitment and requires lots of training so, we do ask people to stay in the role for a minimum of one year.

We’ll also need to do some routine safeguarding checks, including an enhanced criminal record check and at least two satisfactory references with at least one covering a period of five years or more with no gaps. It’s nothing to worry about, and we can answer any questions you have about this.

Who’s right for the role?

While we think this role is suitable for a whole range of people, we are particularly looking for those with the following qualities and experience.

  • Passionate about helping young people and children
  • Great communication skills
  • Empathetic and perceptive
  • able to think on your feet
  • works well within a team
  • emotional resilience

Why volunteer with us?

Not only will you gain valuable experience throughout your volunteering journey, you’ll also have access to useful resources including a catalogue of online training, discount portal and NSPCC inMind – an online mindfulness resource.

You’ll be fully supported throughout your volunteer journey with us and will have a dedicated key contact should you have any questions along the way.

Breakfast Bite provides pay-as-you-feel breakfasts for students on City Campus from 9.30- 11am every Thursday morning during term time! Looking for a hot affordable breakfast on campus? This is your spot! 

You can choose from instant oats, toast and Idli (Indian rice cakes) or grab a cup of tea or coffee before heading to your lectures. 

It's right at Eco Soup by The Hive, and you can even bring your own bowl or cup for a free drink!