Listening Ear Service
About Listening Ear
In moments of crisis, distress, change or decisions, having someone to speak to who is prepared to listen, creates time and space to explore, in a safe environment, any matters which are causing concern.
Peer Support
At the Opt-In, we provide a one to one confidential peer support Listening Ear Service, for which there is no charge. Volunteers providing peer support are not trained counsellors, but they are sympathetic and understanding towards those with physical and sensory disabilities.
How can it help?
Listeners may help to get a new perspective on a problem, to think about possible solutions or simply give the opportunity to talk things through confidentially, with somebody who is not involved.
How long will it take?
The number of sessions varies from person to person. Many people come just once or for a few sessions. Others come over a longer period of time. In any case, an initial agreement is made and progress is reviewed regularly.
How to make an appointment
You can make the first appointment by telephoning Yvonne Macdonald on 01467 629909. An initial appointment will be arranged for up to 1 hour to discuss, in confidence, with a Listener:
- What has prompted you to seek help
- The kind of help you are looking for (if you know)
- What we can offer
- Whether we know of any other services that might also help
At this meeting you might also want to ask about
- Frequency of meetings
- Confidentiality
Sometimes this one brief meeting is enough to discover new possibilities for you to handle your situation. Alternatively, you may decide that peer support is not for you; other services may suit your objectives or pursuits and any decision on this will be entirely at your discretion.
If however, you decide that you would like to continue with the Peer Support Service, you will be offered Listening Ear sessions to an agreed time.
What to do if you feel uncomfortable about any aspect of Listening Ear
It is our policy to ensure that our services are of a high standard. If you have a query relating to the Service, approach either your Listener or the Executive Officer.
ADA is an Associate Member of COSCA
(Counselling & Psychotherapy in Scotland)