Our volunteers are at the heart of My Black Dog.
Please note: applications for new volunteers are currently closed whilst we process the backlog of applications.
Please check back regularly for when we re-open.
We are My Black Dog. We are real people, with real experiences, talking to our guests in real time.We are a listening ear and aim to emphasise and connect with people and their experiences of mental health. Volunteers support our guests through web-chats using their own computer from the comfort of their own home. Shifts are 2-3 hours per week, with volunteers being supported by our My Black Dog team.
Are strongly committed to helping others
Have experienced mental health issues in order to relate to those seeking help
Be willing to talk about your own experiences
Are 18+ years old
Can volunteer 2-3 hours a week from home
Someone to talk to
You can volunteer from the comfort of your own home, supported by the My Black Dog team virtually.
All you need is a phone, a computer/tablet and a wifi connection and you are good to go.
Volunteers must be 18+ in order to join the My Black Dog pack
Volunteering shifts are normally 2-3 hours long and the service is open evenings and weekend.
If you're interested in joining the pack, fill in our application form below, and a member of the team will be in touch. Normally the first stage is an informal chat so we get to know you and explain how volunteering works. The on-boarding process involves an online induction session, DBS check and two references before getting started.
Our online induction sessions shows you how to use the software, what a web-chat may look like and tips and tricks for volunteering in order to prepare you for your first shift.
Webchats about mental health can be daunting, so you will have access to a shift supervisor for every shift, who is there is support you and offer guidance. Some of our experienced volunteers are mentors as well who are here to support and offer practical advice, so you're never by yourself.
Of course! Most evenings My Black Dog is online weekdays 5-10pm and Sundays 7-10pm so there are shift times to suit all availability.
We are an open book and happy to talk through any queries you have. Please contact info@myblackdog.co for any further advice and support.
