Croydon’s FJC is using National Domestic Violence Awareness Month to appeal for more volunteers.
The volunteer project started in January, and volunteers have already provided over 400 hours of support for the service, working with individuals and families experiencing domestic abuse.
Volunteers give emotional and practical support, help people feel less isolated, and encouraging them to seek help from health, housing and financial services, children’s centres and support groups.
This can include everything from being a listening ear, to attending appointments with them, helping to fill out forms, accessing colleges, universities and jobs, and showing those new to Croydon around the borough.
Councillor Hamida Ali, cabinet member for safer Croydon and communities
“Our volunteers provide crucial support as part of our response to people experiencing domestic violence in Croydon.
“They are helping people to achieve change in their lives and they make an incredible contribution to the service. Their commitment is also an opportunity for them to build their skills and experience through the training and supervision given.
“So far 37 people have been trained, but we need more people to come forward.”
The volunteers are closely supervised by the FJC team. Those interested must be 21 and over, and able to offer a minimum of two hours each week for a minimum of six months. The volunteering hours are Monday to Friday, 9am to 7pm, and 10am to 1pm on Saturdays.
The training takes three full days (usually Monday Tuesday, Wednesday, 10am-4pm). Evening training is also available (over several weeks) for those who cannot attend during the day.
For further details on the FJC work, including training dates, please contact the volunteer co-ordinator, Emma Osbourne, on 020 8688 0100, or email emma.osbourne@croydon.gov.uk.
If you, or someone you know, is affected by domestic abuse, please speak up. Support is available. Please contact the FJC on the number above, email fjc@croydon.gov.uk, or call the National Domestic Violence Helpline (open 24/7): 0808 2000 247. In an emergency call 999.
