Victim Support work 'a privilege'

Judi Gopperth, Taranaki service coordinator for Victim Support, says the work is rewarding

"You are entering people's lives when they are at a time of great turmoil, pain or sadness, and building a link which will help them now and in the future. The experience can be humbling but is also an honour and privilege to be able to help in this way."

Judi Gopperth, service co-ordinator for Victim Support in Taranaki, says volunteers for Victim Support provide invaluable support to people who have been the victim of crime or trauma.

It is certainly quite intense at times. You may be helping support a person who has just witnessed a sudden death or suicide, or they have been in a car accident which resulted in the death of someone.

Judi Gopperth, service coordinator for Victim Support in Taranaki

The work Victim Support does in the community can include supporting people who have been affected by a variety of incidents that can include home invasions, fatal motor vehicle accidents, homicide, sexual violence or a family bereaved by suicide.

"It is certainly quite intense at times. You may be helping support a person who has just witnessed a sudden death or suicide, or they have been in a car accident which resulted in the death of someone."

This, she says, is why the training programme for Victim Support volunteers is "incredibly in-depth".

You are there to provide practical and emotional help to people in their time of need. Helping people is never thankless.

When Judi herself went through the training, she says she was deeply impressed with its thoroughness.

"I felt really empowered to help people, as the training was so good. As well as learning skills which help you in the volunteer role, there is also plenty of personal growth and learning to be taken away from the sessions."

While the work can be intense, Judi says it is equally rewarding.

"You are there to provide practical and emotional help to people in their time of need. Helping people is never thankless. Making a difference to people's lives is rewarding in itself."

The other side of volunteering is the support provided to support workers and the camaraderie and friendship made through meeting and working with like-minded people.

Judi says Victim Support needs more volunteers.

"We encourage anyone who is compassionate and looking to give back to the community, from anywhere in Taranaki, to consider volunteering.

"We are looking for people who are good communicators and listeners, who want to help people, and are willing to undertake training. It is also important those thinking of volunteering have considered the commitment required to roster duty and ongoing training attendance once a month."

If you feel you have the attributes to volunteer for Victim Support, and want to help make a difference in people's lives, phone 0800 865 868 for information, or visit the webpage: www.victimsupport.org.nz/volunteer/sign-up-now.