Become a helpline volunteer

Online application form

Volunteer work placements wanted for our helpline service

Are you a qualified solicitor, trainee solicitor, barrister or medically qualified?

For the foreseeable future we are unable to accept helpline volunteer applications from students or graduates.

If so, we would like to hear from you

I have been volunteering for AvMA for five years. The helpline is such a valuable resource for people who need advice on medical negligence and the callers are so grateful. It always gives me a satisfaction when they thank me for listening and helping them to understand the options available to them.
Jacqui, Helpline Volunteer

We currently have over 100 regular volunteers with legal or medical backgrounds who have found the experience to be extremely helpful when dealing with clients back at their place of work.

Volunteering for the helpline can give you:

Greater awareness of the complaints system
A clearer understanding of the clients’ perspective
Opportunities to get involved with research projects and written casework
An enjoyable and worthwhile experience

Volunteers have also enjoyed getting to know the AvMA staff and more about the organisation as a whole, with many volunteering far longer than anticipated.

We offer a training programme tailored to meet your needs, including complaints procedures.

Helpline sessions are staffed remotely from the volunteer’s home or office, using a virtual call centre. Sessions are on a rota system with a 1½ or 2 hour session either weekly, fortnightly or every 4 weeks.

Volunteering with AvMA is a chance to give back and put my skills to good use. The commitment is very flexible as you can staff the helpline from anywhere. It’s so rewarding when a caller is pleased with advice you’ve given them and feels more informed and empowered.
Emily, Helpline Volunteer

How to volunteer

View a description of the role

Complete an online application form

If you would like more information, please email Gillian Savage, Helpline Development Officer.

Please note that we are currently unfortunately unable to take on students or graduates due to capacity and training limitations.

I see the effect of clinical negligence every day and sometimes you can’t help as much as you would like within the confines of the legal system. I volunteer to help those who need either extra advice, or help where the law cannot as yet. AvMA is invaluable at this and also in changing minds and legal process to benefit those that need it. The least I can do is help out.
Laura, Helpline Volunteer