Volunteer Counsellor

Role 

At The Haven Wolverhampton, we know that healing from abuse takes time, safety, and understanding. As a Volunteer Counsellor, you’ll play a vital part in helping women, children, and young people begin to rebuild their confidence, process their experiences, and rediscover hope for the future.

Whether you’re a qualified counsellor or completing a placement as part of your training, this is a chance to use your skills where they truly matter — supporting those whose voices have too often been silenced. Guided by our team, you’ll provide confidential emotional support in a safe and empowering environment that honours each person’s journey at their own pace.

So… if you have a compassionate heart, a listening ear, and a desire to help others reclaim their strength and voice, we’d love to welcome you into our Haven family.

What are some of the benefits?

A Chance to Make a Difference: You’ll be a lifeline for women and children who have experienced domestic abuse, helping them to feel seen, heard, and supported as they begin to heal.

Personal and Professional Growth: Deepen your understanding of trauma, resilience, and recovery through hands-on experience, reflective practice, and ongoing supervision.

Specialist Training: Gain valuable knowledge in domestic abuse awareness, safeguarding, coercive control, and trauma-informed counselling — equipping you with skills that extend far beyond this role.

Earn Glowing References: Receive a personalised reference highlighting your contribution, professionalism, and the impact of your support on those you’ve worked with.

Be Part of Our Haven Team: As a volunteer, you’ll be joining a community of caring professionals and peers, all working together to empower women and children to live free from abuse. You’ll find connection, purpose, and support — every step of the way.

Flexible Volunteering That Works for You: Whether you can give a few hours a week or more, we’ll work around your existing commitments and create a volunteering schedule that fits your availability.

What activities will I be involved in?

• Providing one-to-one counselling or therapeutic support sessions to women, children, and young people affected by domestic abuse and trauma.

• Maintaining clear, confidential records of sessions in line with professional and organisational guidelines.

• Taking part in reflective supervision and debrief sessions with our specialist counsellors to support your own wellbeing and learning.

• Participating in team meetings, training sessions, and wellbeing workshops to stay informed and supported.

• Supporting our commitment to trauma-informed and survivor-centred practice in all aspects of your work.

What skills and abilities will I need to have?

• Empathy & Active Listening: The ability to create a calm, non-judgmental space where survivors feel safe to share and explore their emotions.

• Understanding of Trauma: A basic knowledge of trauma and domestic abuse — or a willingness to learn — with a commitment to ongoing professional development.

• Professionalism & Boundaries: The ability to maintain confidentiality, clear boundaries, and accurate records in line with ethical frameworks.

• Strong Communication: The confidence to communicate sensitively and effectively with women, children, young people, and colleagues from diverse backgrounds.

• Emotional Resilience: The role can be challenging, so self-care, reflection, and a supportive attitude are key.

The important stuff

Due to the nature of what we do, we may ask that anyone who would like to volunteer with us as an event volunteer on an ongoing basis receives a DBS check. Under the Care Standards Act 2000, all roles are subject to an Enhanced Disclosure from the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS). Don’t worry, if you are happy to give your time and support us on an ongoing basis, we will cover the cost of this and send you everything you need to start the DBS check. We will have a few other forms and bit and pieces you will need to fill in so we can keep you safe and well-informed during your time with us.