Volunteering FAQs
Here are some of the more frequently asked questions about volunteering with DRCC. They are mainly focused on our support volunteer roles. See fundraising and campaign pages for information on volunteer roles in these areas.
What types of volunteering roles can I be involved in?
Volunteers at Dublin Rape Crisis Centre are mainly involved in a combination of the following roles:
- Out-of-hours Telephone Counsellors on the National 24-hour Helpline.
- Support volunteers for victims/survivors in the aftermath of rape or sexual assault at the Sexual Assault Treatment Unit (SATU) in the Rotunda Hospital, Dublin.
- Webchat Counsellors on DRCC website.
Learn more about other volunteering roles at DRCC.
Can I start volunteering straight away?
No. All of our volunteers undergo a recruitment and training process in all roles, and our volunteering is not something you can start immediately.
Is there any age restriction for volunteering?
All volunteers must be 24 or over.
Can I volunteer from any part of the country?
You can volunteer with DRCC if you have a reliable internet access and can travel to Dublin for regular training/peer support. Our approximate catchment area is:
If you live outside Dublin, you can contact your local Rape Crisis Centre for information on their volunteering opportunities - click here for further details.
What is the volunteering commitment?
We ask volunteers to commit to four shifts a month for a minimum of one year.
Do you have male volunteers?
Yes, we have volunteers of all genders within our organisation.
Do I need any particular qualifications?
No previous experience or qualifications are required. We will provide you with full training to carry out the role.
What is the selection process for the role?
- Complete online application form.
- Option to attend online information evening, where available.
- Attend 30-minute in-person interview.
- Complete Garda vetting form.
- Attend all training dates.
- Provide contact details for two referees.
- Attend role-play assessment upon completion of training.
Is training provided?
Yes, training is mandatory for all our support volunteers.
Where do I take calls?
Volunteers need to have access to a quiet space, free from distraction, to take calls. It is vital that you have strong, reliable and secure broadband connection.
What support is provided for volunteers?
- Full initial and ongoing training;
- Monthly peer support meetings/debriefing sessions;
- Access to Employee Assistant Programme (EAP);
- Check in calls from the Telephone Counselling Team and Volunteer Services team;
- Self-care resources.
Is volunteering on the National Helpline or SATU considered work placement or clinical supervision for college?
No, we do not recognise that volunteering for our service can be considered work placement or clinical supervision for college.
Can I volunteer if I have used DRCC services?
Yes, you can volunteer if you’ve used our services in the past. The important thing is that you are self-aware, in the right place in your life to be able to support others, and that you know when you need to ask for support from DRCC’s Volunteer Services department or take a break from volunteering.
Can I volunteer for longer than 2 years?
Yes, while we request a minimum of two years, we do have volunteers who stay with us for longer periods.
More information
Our Volunteer Services Department manages the recruitment, training, assessment and monthly peer support of our volunteers. If you would like to learn more about volunteering with DRCC, please email us at volunteerservices@rcc.ie.
