Linda

Linda shares her experiences of volunteering and her involvement in Youth Philanthropy Initiative (YPI) events at Aberdeen schools.

When I joined Cruse Scotland in 2009, it was suggested to me that I should do the Counselling Skills course at Aberdeen University. 

Initially, this was to assist me with listening to clients on the telephone, which was in the pre-helpline days. After I completed this course, it seemed natural to go on to do the Cruse Scotland Specialist Bereavement training in 2012, after which I became a Volunteer Skilled Listener.  

I then started to support clients on a one-to-one basis, and after gaining 40 hours of counselling, I completed the Advanced Listener certification.

Initial Client Interviews

The Initial Client Interview is an essential part of the support process, and it enables Cruse Scotland to learn where the client is in their grief journey and what support we are able to offer to them.  

It is an assessment process where a brief background of the client’s story is obtained, with some questions on life events, physical and mental health. 

This assessment includes a list of questions with options of answers on how the client has been feeling over their grief in the last month, which includes checking on any suicidal/self-harm risk to the client.

I try to create an atmosphere where the client feels comfortable by having a gentle, friendly approach and by advising the client of the reason for the assessment. 

I also reassure the client that the list of questions covers normal feelings of grief and that we are asking them to help us find out where they are in their grief, so that we can put the best level of support in place, if needed.

Self-care

Self-care is also very important, and for me, this includes walks in nature, photography, socialising with friends, reading, and holidays.

I very much enjoy the YPI events at schools as well as events at our local Vaccination Hub, where we raise awareness of our service. There are many charities present at the YPI events, and it can be tricky to engage the pupils with bereavement. 

However, we found that if we talk to them in terms of the loss of someone they can relate to, eg the recent death of a pop star or celebrity, they get a better understanding of the feelings surrounding grief. These events are also a very good way of networking with other charities.

Volunteering rewarding

Volunteering with Cruse Scotland is very rewarding, and I always feel very privileged that the clients are happy to share a part of their grief story with me. 

It has opened doors for me in terms of being a good listener, learning about myself, gaining skills and meeting so many other wonderful volunteers. 

I would encourage anyone thinking of volunteering with Cruse Scotland. You will receive first-class specialist bereavement training along with the best support.