Claire

For Claire, volunteering with Cruse Scotland is about more than offering counselling - it's about being there for people at one of the most difficult times in their lives.

Claire shares what volunteering has given her personally.

What would you say to someone considering volunteering at Cruse Scotland?

As a volunteer counsellor with Cruse Scotland, I’ve always felt that my skills and experience are valued and respected.

The organisation provides excellent ongoing CPD opportunities, as well as access to clinical supervision, which are essential for safe and effective counselling practice.

Having these supports provided by Cruse Scotland has made volunteering both professionally rewarding and personally fulfilling.

What initially drew you to volunteer with Cruse Scotland?

I wanted to support people experiencing bereavement because losing someone is something that can happen to any of us, often when we least expect it.

I felt privileged to be able to offer a safe, compassionate space where people could talk openly about their grief.

What has volunteering with Cruse Scotland given you personally?

Volunteering with Cruse Scotland has given me a real sense of connection—both with the clients I support and with my fellow volunteer counsellors, who are incredibly supportive.

It’s also strengthened my connection to my local community by allowing me to support people during one of the most difficult times in their lives.

Seeing clients feel heard, understood and accepted as they process their grief is incredibly meaningful.

Is there a particular conversation or connection with a client that has stayed with you?

While I wouldn’t share details of individual clients to protect confidentiality, there have been many moments that have stayed with me.

Someone arriving feeling overwhelmed by grief and, over time, begin to find their own way forward is incredibly moving.

Being trusted to walk alongside someone during such a vulnerable period is something I never take for granted.

How do you manage the emotional weight of hearing grief stories?

Clinical supervision, provided by Cruse Scotland, is invaluable in helping me reflect on my work and manage the emotional impact of supporting bereaved clients.

Alongside this, I prioritise self-care through long daily walks with my two dogs, which give me time to decompress and recharge.

Maintaining good professional support and personal wellbeing helps me remain present and compassionate for the people I work with.

What is the most rewarding aspect of helping support people going through grief?

To hear a change in perhaps the client’s tone of voice, or words they use, which usually symbolises a shift in the weight of their grief, after being able to talk freely to tell how it truly is for them, navigating the loss in their life.