Our volunteer befrienders come from all walks of life, and give up an hour or two a week to make a difference to someone else’s quality of life. We welcome anyone over the age of 18, who has an interest in mental health and an empathy with people, whatever their background and experience. Good Companions especially welcomes those who have experienced mental illness, and their carers, but this is not essential to being a successful volunteer.

Why do people volunteer?

People volunteer in order to

• Gain relevant experience and knowledge
• Meet new people
• Give something back to their community
• Increase their own confidence
• Receive training on mental health issues

What are the benefits of volunteering?

We highly value all of our volunteers, and benefits you can expect from Good Companions are

• Reimbursement of reasonable expenses
• Further training opportunities
• Volunteer support meetings
• Regular subsidised social events
• Regular one to one supervision from your Co-ordinator
• An out of hours telephone support rota

How do I go about volunteering?

You can call us on 01702 343222, email goodcompanions1@rethink.org or download the application form and send it to

Suite 10
Block A
Weston Chambers
Weston Road
Southend on Sea
Essex SS1 1AU

The Volunteer Recruitment Officer will contact you in order to arrange a meeting. We can meet you at our Southend, Pitsea or Brentwood Offices at a time to suit you.

Before becoming a befriender, you will be asked to

• Fill out an application form
• Provide 2 referees
• Complete a CRB form (criminal records check) with our assistance
• Complete the training course

Rethink is the operating name of National Schizophrenia Fellowship, a company limited by guarantee.
Registered in England no. 1227970
Registered charity no. 271028