Volunteers' Week 2018: Making a Difference at Edinburgh Rape Crisis Centre

Why do I volunteer at a Rape Crisis Centre? More like, why wouldn’t I?

The word 'volunteering' conjures up many varying images and assumptions from different people. Some see it as a way to fill in time during quiet spells in life, perhaps to socialise, some see it as a way forward in a career or to develop new skills. Some view it as a way to make cathartic peace with past guilts, some see it as a means to appease judicial proceedings, and yet others may view it as modelling the humanistic behaviour they wish to see more of in the world.

They are all valid reasons in their own way for volunteering personal free time to a cause. However, none of these reasons are mine. My reason is in this question; Why wouldn’t I volunteer?

I believe we all are able to do our part in furthering care and provisions for causes, through whatever means available to us. Fundraising, donating, raising awareness or giving of time.

I believe the niche in empathic care provision for survivors of sexual violence needs addressed and volunteering my time when I have a particular skill is the best way I can do this.

My friends and family ask me, “Don’t you find it difficult?!”

And I answer, “Yes. And?”

Spending time with survivors of sexual violence who have been hurt, abused, taken advantage of, placed on a waiting list… hearing their stories, sharing their pain, remaining alongside them on their journey of reflection, healing and reparation is an honour.

I understand that nothing separates me from survivors, we are all at risk of sexual violence.

Shame is such a deep component resulting from sexual violence and I know that compassion, empathy, true caring and listening with empathy to those that are suffering can be an antidote. I know I cannot take the pain away but maybe I can ever so slightly ease some of the fear that is felt during their journey. Maybe for some survivors, knowing that someone who truly cares about their experiences is available just for them in a tranquil, safe space for one hour a week where nothing is too scary to say, where any amount of tears can be shed, can be the beginning of a whole new journey. Maybe even the beginning to trust again. Being a volunteer, supporting someone, looking forward to seeing them, walking alongside them every week, during progress and also remaining steadfast during setbacks, is an honour and I thank every person that trusts me to walk alongside them on their difficult journey.