Galway Rape Crisis Centre (GRCC ) is seeking volunteers aged 25 and over to join its Psychological Support Team, providing vital support to survivors of sexual assault.
The team offers compassionate support throughout a survivor’s journey, including at Galway’s Sexual Assault Treatment Unit (SATU ), where survivors can access free medical care. Volunteers can also provide support to family members and friends who may accompany a survivor.
The Galway SATU is a free and confidential service providing 24-hour medical care, seven days a week, to people of all genders and gender identities aged 14 and over.
GRCC says volunteering with the Psychological Support Team is a meaningful opportunity to stand alongside survivors while developing skills and experience within a supportive community.
Volunteers receive comprehensive training before joining the team, consisting of 60 hours of in-depth training delivered across five weekends. They also receive ongoing support through monthly supervision, debriefing and guidance, with further specialised training available for supporting survivors when meeting with An Garda Síochána or attending court.
The centre is looking for people who are empathetic, calm and reliable, aged 25 or over and living within approximately 40 minutes of Galway City.
Volunteers must be able to commit to three shifts per month, with flexibility around scheduling. The recruitment process includes an online application interview and Garda vetting, followed by the full training programme.
Current Psychological Support Team volunteers say the role can be both challenging and deeply rewarding.
Katie, who volunteers with the team, said she wanted to give back to her local community and provide support to people during some of the most difficult moments of their lives.
“Being able to give back to my local community and provide a listening ear to people in crisis is incredibly meaningful to me,” she said. “It’s a privilege to be there for someone when they may need support the most, hoping that I can make even a small positive difference in their journey.”
She also highlighted the supportive nature of the wider team, describing it as a privilege to work alongside “such diverse and wonderful” volunteers.
Fellow volunteer Brenda said she became involved because she believes strongly in the ethos of the organisation and wanted to contribute to her community.
“Teenagers, men and women who experience sexual assault or rape need to feel safe, be heard and feel supported,” she said.
“My role as a psychological supporter with the GRCC allows me to provide this support at the initial stages of what can be a long and challenging process.”
Applications are open until Friday, August 28, 2026.
Further information and application details are available at www.galwayrcc.ie
