Volunteers needed for Peer Support Line

We’re seeking members to volunteer for our important wellbeing service – which is rated 100% supportive by those who use it.

The AOP Peer Support Line is a confidential, free-phone helpline for individuals to discuss their problems. The service provides callers with the opportunity to talk to a fellow optical professional in a dedicated non-judgemental space – with the aim of giving them relief and clarity over the issues affecting them. 

Volunteers take calls on a range of subjects including workplace pressure, bullying, ill health, financial worries, bereavement or anxiety about exams. 

Thurka Sivapalan, Chairwoman of the Peer Support Line, said: “Often the first step to feeling in control of a problem is talking about it. However, sometimes it doesn’t feel quite right to share with those closest to you, perhaps because you feel like it will be a burden or you’d like an outside perspective, for this reason, the Peer Support Line offers an invaluable service.  Ms Sivapalan added: “Last year, we had good take-up, with an increasing number, month on month, of individuals calling the line about issues of worry or stress.”  

We’re looking for qualified AOP members who are driven to make a difference and would like to help sustain this vital support network for the profession.

If you are interested in this volunteer position please visit our Peer Support Line page for information on what’s involved and the training available.