OWL (Onward, Wellness, Learning) is an invaluable group of volunteers who ensure that the voices of survivors are at the core of our work, shaping our priorities and helping us to improve our service.

What is the role?

OWL volunteers are a committed and passionate team of survivors who help us develop what we do, share new ideas and help to plan services. Volunteers will attend regular meetings, either in-person or joining online. This group will be survivor-led so themes and topics will vary depending on what the needs and interests of the group are. We envision that the group will contribute towards the work we do and our organisational direction at a level that feels comfortable. We also would hope that OWL volunteers would contribute ideas towards campaigns, events and fundraisers. 

OWL is in the early stages of development, staff want to work collaboratively with survivors to develop this survivors-voice group in a way that is meaningful and embraces each individuals unique strengths.

Who can volunteer?

The OWL group is for adult women survivors. Most members will have accessed support from The Compass Centre in the last two years, but will not currently be receiving support. However, we will consider requests to join from survivors who are new to Shetland and have been part of the Rape Crisis network elsewhere.    No previous professional experience is required for this role, all that is needed is the want to be involved in creating positive change for survivors in our community and the ability to work within a team. We do not expect any of our volunteers to take a public-facing role and will use the same discretion as we do in all our work.  

If you have accessed our service and you are not an adult woman, or you do not wish to meet in a group but would like your voice heard, we still want to hear from you. Get in touch with a member of staff to hear more about how you can input into our work

How much time do I need to commit?

We are looking for survivors who can volunteer for a few hours a month for a minimum of a year; meetings take place online or in-person once every 4-6 weeks or thereabouts. We can reimburse reasonable travel expenses and childcare costs if we meet face-to-face.

How do I find out more?

If you are interested or have any questions, please contact Jess, Sexual Crime Advocacy & Sexual Violence Support Practitioner by email: jessica.carlyle@compasscentre.org Jess will get back to you, invite you for a chat to discuss how the group works.

Images by Valentina Conde, Adi Goldstein & Daiga Eleby via Unsplash