Nightline is staffed by our fantastic cohort of student volunteers, who dedicate at least two nights a term to help ensure the smooth running of the service.
All of our volunteers undergo a rigorous training course, including basic first aid, when they become members of Nightline to ensure our callers are treated as best as possible. They are also presented with the opportunity to participate in additional training throughout the year such as mental health, LGBT awareness, culture and diversity and drugs awareness.
Volunteers’ duty hours can be accredited by vTeam – a scheme run by the Students’ Union which leads to a certified recognition of the hours volunteered. Additionally, volunteers involved in the Big Essex award are able to complete our 25 unit & 50 unit activity tracks.
Being a member of Nightline provides the opportunity to gain a wide variety of transferable skills, such as active listening and team-working. It’s also a lot of fun!
+ Who can volunteer?
Any student of the University of Essex can apply to be a volunteer at Essex Nightline – we accept students of all degree years and disciplines.
+ What are the time commitments of being a volunteer?
Aside from the mandatory interview and training weekend sessions, we ask that all our volunteers do at least two duties per term (autumn, spring and summer). These are from 10pm to 8am, and take place in the Nightline flat on our Colchester campus. We also hold group meetings and socials throughout the year to let you know what Nightline is up to and catch up with your fellow volunteers!
+ Do I need prior experience?
No, students do not need prior experience in a volunteering or support role. We will provide the necessary training you need, all we ask is that you are enthusiastic, reliable and committed to the service!
+ What do I get from volunteering?
Aside from the warm fuzzy feeling you get from helping others, the relevant skills and experiences you develop whilst volunteering at Nightline will look great on any CV.
In addition, Nightline duty hours can be accredited by
vTeam to go towards your volunteering certificate, and by the
Big Essex award for which we have both a 25 and 50 unit track.
+ I'm not completely sure if I want to be a volunteer yet, what should I do?
Even if you haven’t decided about volunteering yet, please get in touch! You don’t have to commit to anything until you attend the training weekend, and we will answer any questions you may have via email or at the interview stage in order to help you make an informed decision. Keep in mind many of our volunteers find working at Nightline to be an exciting and rewarding experience!
+ What is the process for becoming a volunteer?
- Register your interest by emailing nlpo@essex.ac.uk
- If we are currently recruiting, you will be emailed with an interview date and place, this is an informal interview and a chance for you to learn more about the service
- If you pass the interview stage, you will be invited to a training weekend to teach you the skills you need to be a Nightline volunteer!