Volunteering

The Galway Rape Crisis Centre has a dedicated team of specially trained volunteers who operate the following services:

1. Helpline Volunteers

The helpline is often the first point of contact for survivors. It is also there as a support service to on-going clients, supporters of survivors or anyone who might like to talk about issues relating to sexual violence or sexual abuse, find out more about our services or discuss any other concerns they might have which relate to this area. Every caller is treated as an individual with respect and dignity and given the time and understanding they need to get the help and support they deserve.

2. Volunteer Counsellors

Volunteer counsellors form an integral part of the services provided by GRCC. Our volunteers are trained under the auspices of the Rape Crisis Network Ireland (RCNI). The aim of the training is to provide prospective volunteers with a good foundation in counselling theory and counselling skills.

3. S.A.T.U. Volunteers

The Sexual Assault Treatment Unit (SATU) gives essential care and forensic support to people who have been the survivors of sexual assault and rape. The work done at these units is of prime importance on two fronts, firstly in the provision of sensitive care to assault survivors who are often traumatised and deeply distressed, but also in taking the necessary steps to support the survivor and the judicial system in bringing the perpetrators to justice.

The Galway Rape Crisis Centre has a dedicated group of volunteers who are available to offer support to women and men who are attending the Garda Station, A & E or the soon to be opened, Sexual Assault Treatment Unit in Galway.

4. Court Accompaniment

The GRCC has a group of trained volunteers who are available to accompany clients of the Centre to court hearings.

The legal process can be a daunting one and court hearings are often difficult and confusing. Our volunteers offer support and information to clients who are going through this process.

5. Education/Outreach Talks

The GRCC provides an educational prevention and awareness programme for groups and young people. Talks and workshops are held in a safe-space and are designed to educate, challenge and stimulate participants to explore new ways of thinking.

Staff and specially trained volunteers will visit schools, community groups etc to provide information and to promote prevention and awareness of all aspects of sexual violence.

A Big ‘Thank You’ to all our Volunteers

Here in the Galway Rape Crisis Centre we recognize that we could not offer such a wide range of services without the ongoing support of our dedicated volunteers. They are the backbone of the organization. We are committed to their care and training. All volunteers receive extensive training from our volunteer coordinators and other staff members, before selection for one of the above programmes. In addition we provide regular supervision, which allow volunteers to share insights and receive mutual support. These meetings also include ongoing training and inputs from other organizations as required.

We recruit for our volunteer teams on a twice-yearly basis. If you are interested in volunteering for the Galway Rape Crisis Centre you can phone or email us for further information.

‘The training I received was fantastic and it has been an amazing opportunity to volunteer in the Galway Rape Crisis Centre and help make a difference’