Telephone Support Volunteer (Home Based)

Make a difference from the comfort of your own home

Marie Curie’s telephone Support Services offer a lifeline to people affected by terminal illness - whether they’re facing it themselves or grieving the loss of a loved one. Through our Companion Over the Phone and Bereavement Support services, we provide a safe, compassionate space for people to talk, reflect, and feel heard.

We’re looking for empathetic volunteers to join our team and offer emotional support over the phone. If you’re someone who can listen with warmth and understanding and want to help others navigate one of life’s most difficult journeys, we’d love to hear from you.

You'll be part of a compassionate team offering short-term emotional support to matched clients over the phone.

• For our Companion Over the Phone service, calls typically last up to 30 minutes once a week for 12 weeks
• For our Bereavement Support service, sessions may last up to 45 minutes once a week for 6 weeks

What you'll do:

• Listen actively and explore clients’ feelings with sensitivity
• Signpost to relevant resources when needed
• Participate in monthly supervision via phone or Microsoft Teams
• Complete initial and ongoing training (virtual, self-led and live sessions)

Why you'd be a great fit:

• Show sensitivity to the needs of people facing terminal illness or bereavement
• Demonstrate patience, empathy, and emotional resilience
• Commit to regular weekly volunteering and client appointments
• Understand the importance of safeguarding and confidentiality
• Engage actively in training and supervision with a willingness to learn
• Use basic IT skills - or show a readiness to learn - to navigate our calling system

You will need:

• A quiet, confidential space to make calls
• Access to a smartphone, laptop or desktop computer
• Availability at the same time each week for consistent client matching

What you’ll gain

• A deep sense of purpose
• Supportive training and ongoing guidance
• A friendly volunteer network
• Recognition for your time
• Access to exclusive deals and discounts across retail, travel, entertainment, and more
• Marie Curie Shops Loyalty Card Programme

Key dates to be aware of

Introductory Meetings – Week Commencing 15th, 22nd and 29th June. 

A chance to meet the team, learn more about the service, and ask questions. Multiple days and times available.

Training begins September 2026 - Delivered virtually, the training is designed to be completed from the comfort of your own home. It includes a blend of self-led activities and live online workshops.

Early September (time commitment approx. 3.5 hours)

• You will work through 3 self-led (approx. 1.5hour) plus completion of a workbook (approx. 1hour).
• There will be an introductory meeting to go through the training and meet other volunteers, you will have an option to join on either Weds 9th Sept at 6pm or Fri 11th Sept at 12:45pm (approx. 45mins).

Late September/October  (time commitment approx. 4.5hours)

• Attend 2 live workshops, complete 2 self-led sessions and attend 1 live practical session as per dates below
  Live workshop part 1 – Tues 22nd September 6-8pm OR Wednesday 23rd September 10am-12pm
• Live workshop part 2 – Monday 28th September 6-8pm OR Thursday 1st October 10am-12pm
• Live practical session – multiple times available on either Monday 19th October or Wednesday 21st October.

If you’re ready to offer your time, compassion, and listening ear to someone who truly needs it, apply today and help us bring comfort and connection to those facing life’s hardest moments.

Need more information?

Contact Peer Support Team by emailing ps.volunteers@mariecurie.org.uk