Urgent need for volunteers

Warwick Safe Haven provides short-term safe accommodation for women and children from across Queensland escaping domestic and family violence.
Volunteers are needed urgently to train for “hostessing”, which includes opening the shelter, welcoming clients and children, and ensuring they have everything they need for their stay.
Volunteers do not engage in counselling or crisis management.
Volunteers are required to commit to a rotating roster appropriate to their availability, which is reviewed on a monthly basis, and will always be placed with a “buddy”.
Volunteers are also needed for cleaning and washing after clients have vacated the house.
Volunteers are supported at a monthly meeting chaired by a visiting domestic violence worker from Toowoomba.
Prospective volunteers participate in a phone interview with Relationships Australia to ascertain suitability, and then receive two days’ group training in Warwick.
The training includes extensive procedures information and trainers are keen to receive any further questions from volunteers as they arise.
DV Service Toowoomba is also available as a “debrief” phone service for volunteers during the next working hours after their shift.
At completion of training, participants are considered Relationships Australia volunteer staff.
Volunteers are required to sign a confidentiality agreement and will need a blue card (this can be pursued at training sessions).
For further queries or to register for an interview, potential volunteers can phone Toowoomba DV service on (07) 4639 3605.
Direct assistance for any domestic violence related matter can be accessed on the dvConnect 24/7 hotline on 1800 811 811.