Volunteer Support Network
Parent and Family Drug Support is comprised of the Volunteer Support Network which is made up of volunteers.
Volunteers have a core volunteering role of supporting callers on the Parent and Family Drug Support Line.
In addition, our volunteers facilitate support groups helping people to learn new strategies and skills to better cope with their situations. These groups are free, and any family member or significant other who is affected by someone else's alcohol or other drug use can attend.
How you can help
Telephone Support
Speak to parents or significant others on the phone to share practical coping strategies and discuss options with them. Volunteers work one rostered shift a week from home, speaking to parents and family members who have called the helpline for support.
Group Facilitation
Lead support groups in the community. Facilitators provide a safe space for family members to talk openly and freely about their concerns and fears and gain support from others going through similar issues. Groups run between 1.5-2 hours per session.
Drug Court Support
Help parents and family members who have a child or family member going through Perth's Drug Court. Volunteers attend Perth Drug Court every Monday and Tuesday morning to provide support, answer questions, and share referrals for local services.
Suitability
We would like to run more support groups and provide assistance to more families in need. If you can lend a hand, we’d love to hear from you. Training is provided alongside ongoing support from professional staff and peers.
The role would not be suitable to those who:
- Have experienced alcohol and other-drug related problems within the past two years
- Have experienced an alcohol or other drug-related death of a significant other within the last two years
- Are unable to commit to volunteering for a 12-month period; and or
- Are unable to complete the training and six month probationary period of the program.
As most of our communication is done electronically, volunteers need to have a computer and be comfortable using technology.
Provide hope and support to others
Have you reached a point in your life where you feel emotionally ready and available to use your personal experience to help others?
Volunteering with us might be perfect for you. The role suits parents and family members who have lived experience of supporting a family member affected by alcohol and other drug use. Our volunteers have excellent communication skills, effective coping strategies, and resilience to promote hope to other parents and families in distress.
Whether you’re looking to give back to your community, want to learn new skills or find a community, volunteering is a valuable experience. As a volunteer, you will be joining a warm, friendly, supportive and passionate team of parents.
Support makes a difference
Parents and family members of people who use alcohol and other drugs say it’s like riding an emotional roller coaster – it can leave you feeling isolated and powerless. That’s why we recruit volunteers to help provide hope and support to families who are struggling.
Facilitators say they find their role extremely rewarding. Ongoing training and support is provided.
Page last updated2 April 2025
