Who comes to Cruse for help?
- Everybody: children, young people and adults of all ages. In 2006/7 there were over 87,000 enquiries and almost 23,000 clients received support.
- They approach Cruse because someone they love has died and they need someone who will listen and help them cope with their pain and grief.

Why does Cruse need volunteers?
- Cruse needs volunteers in the Branches/Areas across the country to help bereaved people. It can be immensely rewarding work. All volunteers working with clients are carefully trained. Cruse also needs administrators, trainers and supervisors. Whatever you do to help Cruse, you will be helping bereaved people.

What's it like to be a volunteer for Cruse?
- Trish Staples, who works as a volunteer with clients in Sheffield and in the management of her branch, says a little about what it means for her. You can read her story here.

What can I do for Cruse?
- You can help run a branch or area; this could involve fundraising activities, organising publicity, administration, or being part of a management committee.
- You can directly support bereaved people - as individuals, running bereavement groups, organising social groups, or through telephone or email support.
- You can become part of a team offering training and bereavement awareness programmes to anyone who wants to learn more about bereavement.

Who can volunteer for Cruse?
Anyone can apply to be a volunteer for Cruse. You do not need to have any qualifications or previous experience, but you do need to care about bereaved people and have time to offer. You will be given all the preparation, training and support you need. We welcome men and women of all ages, races, cultures and backgrounds.

What is the reward for volunteers?
Your expenses will be paid and you are likely to find there is enormous satisfaction from knowing you make a positive difference to someone's life. You can also benefit from Cruse training (which can include nationally recognised certification) and ongoing personal development. Every hour of time given by a volunteer helps a child or adult face the future knowing that they are not alone.

What should I do next?
Volunteers working with Cruse must complete some training, and those wishing to work with clients must first complete the Awareness in Bereavement Care course which requires 60 hours of study. You can check our calendar of courses here and find your local Area/Branch. Download an application form here if you are interested in becoming a Cruse volunteer.

National Helpline
This is based in Richmond, Surrey. If you'd like to volunteer to join the friendly team on our busy national Helpline, we need a minimum of four hours a week of your time. As well, you need to be a good listener and there is training provided. To find out more contact Paul Williams