Remote Chat Volunteer

SAPUK Chat Volunteers Job Description

About us

Suicide Awareness Prevention UK (SAPUK) is a non-profit Community Interest Company founded in 2016. We support people experiencing suicidal thoughts, emotional distress, or overwhelming life challenges. Our mission is simple: guide people from crisis toward hope, help them regain their strength and sense of safety, and support them in moving forward with their lives.

We offer a range of free, accessible support services:

• Confidential online chat support for real time emotional support, active listening, and signposting
• Safe Spaces (online and in-person) where people can talk, decompress, and feel understood
• SAPUK Life Coaches who provide structured guidance, confidence-building, and personal development support
• A community Food Pantry offering essential items to people and families facing financial hardship
• “I Don’t Know Anyone Either” social events are designed to reduce loneliness and help people build connections
• Semicolon events celebrating resilience, hope, and community through creative and awareness-focused activities

SAPUK is powered solely by volunteers who bring compassion, lived experience, and a shared belief that no one should face their darkest moments alone. We work together to create safe, inclusive, trauma-informed spaces where everyone feels heard, valued, and supported.

Job description

SAPUK is looking for volunteers to assist with our support services, which run daily from 6 am to 11 pm. Volunteers will engage through our instant messaging support line, which operates via Meta and offers anonymous communication via our website. The service is managed through a free app, available for download on all smart devices

SAPUK offers regular training to help volunteers enhance their skills and gain invaluable experience. Volunteers will become part of a supportive, collaborative team that prioritises mental health and the well-being of both those we serve and our volunteers. 

Our chat volunteers are vital to SAPUK, offering support and someone to talk to and signpost to other services if necessary. Talking to people when they are at their lowest and offering a listening ear, so no one is ever alone. 

We have a weekly rota of 3-hour block shifts, but we can be flexible and offer 2-hour blocks if required. This is only at the 9 pm to 11 pm slot. 6 hours a week are required, but we can be flexible with your needs, and overtime is always available. 

Person specifications essential criteria 

• Must be over 18 years old
• Minimum commitment is 6 hours (we are flexible but must be told)
• Must have WhatsApp and Facebook (or willing to get them)
• Willingness to download additional apps and join multiple groups to communicate with SAPUK teams
• Compassion
• Empathy
• Listening skills
• Willingness for ongoing training and courses
• Calm under pressure
• Able to handle sensitive information
• Confidentiality conscious
• UK resident
• Able to work remotely, this is a remote position
• Do all the required training courses
• Complete the shadowing hours, which are 18 hours usually spread over 3 weeks, but if you require more, we can accommodate
• Strong proficiency in English
• Strong communication skills
• Passion for mental Health awareness

If you are passionate about mental health and helping others, and are interested in this voluntary position, please contact volunteer@suicideapuk.co.uk.

Why Volunteer With Suicide Awareness and Prevention UK CIC?

Make a Real Difference While Growing Yourself

Volunteering with Suicide Awareness and Prevention UK CIC isn’t just about filling a role. It is about stepping forward when people need support most and gaining tangible personal and professional benefits along the way.

“Volunteers are not paid, not because they are worthless, but because they are priceless.”

Every conversation, task, and hour you give helps create hope, safety, and connection. At the same time, you’re building skills, confidence, and experience that can help you explore new careers or make a career change.

You don’t need to have all the answers. You just need the willingness to care. We’ll support you with the rest.

Key Benefits of Volunteering

Volunteering can give you:

• Practical Experience for Your CV – Hands-on experience in mental health support, administration, or chat support roles adds real value to your future job applications.
• A Step Towards Coaching, Counselling, or Career Change – Gain exposure to supportive conversations and mental health awareness, perfect if you are considering a career pivot into coaching, counselling, social care, or related sectors.
• Confidence & Personal Growth – Build self-belief by contributing to meaningful work and seeing the direct impact of your support.
• Transferable Skills – Improve communication, teamwork, empathy, problem-solving, and leadership skills that employers value.
• Networking & References – Connect with professionals in the charity and mental health sectors and receive strong references for future roles.
• Purpose & Belonging – Join a welcoming, supportive, and inclusive team, and be part of work that truly matters.

“Alone, we can do so little; together, we can do so much.”

Training and Development

We know volunteers succeed when they are supported. That’s why every role includes:

• Free role-specific induction and training
• Ongoing guidance, supervision, and check-ins
• Opportunities to take responsibility and develop your skills further

No experience is needed. If you care, we can teach you the rest.

Well-Being & Support

Your well-being is as important as the support you provide to others. Volunteers have access to:

• Mental health guidance and resources
• Peer support and check-ins
• Wellness workshops (mindfulness, resilience, self-care)
• A safe, supportive environment where asking for help is encouraged

Career and Progression Benefits

Volunteering with us provides:

• Leadership, mentor, or senior volunteer opportunities
• Experience that strengthens applications for jobs, education, or career pivots
• Clearer direction for a career in mental health, coaching, counselling, or related sectors
• Opportunities to gain strong references and real-world exposure

“Kindness is a language that everyone understands.”

Is Volunteering Right for You?

Volunteering may be right for you if you:

• Want to make a genuine difference
• Care about mental health and suicide prevention
• Are looking for personal growth, experience, or to explore a new career path
• Value compassion, respect, and teamwork

You don’t need to be perfect. Just be present.

Apply and Start Your Journey

We’re currently welcoming new volunteers and would love to hear from you.

There’s no deadline. You can apply whenever you’re ready.

Next Steps:

1. Complete the application form
2. Review the role information
3. Our team will be in touch to guide you through the process

Questions? Email us at: volunteer@suicideapuk.co.uk

By volunteering, you gain real experience, develop skills, and build a foundation for potential career changes, all while helping save lives. 

This role is advertised as part of TPP's Free Giving Back Services. This volunteer advertisement copy has been supplied to TPP and applicants apply direct to the organisation. Please contact the organisation directly if you have any questions about this volunteer role.