Exploring the supportive needs of volunteers working with sexually abused children in Somerset West

Abstract

The aim of this qualitative study was to explore the supportive needs of volunteers working with sexually abused children in Somerset West. Six participants working as volunteers at a specific organisation were recruited through purposive sampling. Data were obtained through group discussions and individual interviews, and were then thematically analysed. Various supportive needs were highlighted in the study. The volunteers expressed a need for appreciation, as well as a need for contact and better support. Although volunteers experienced support from significant others, they had concerns about this in relation to both themselves and their significant others. Volunteers reported developing various coping strategies, but highlighted the need for strategies to deal with anger. A sense of self-worth and appreciation was an important need that emerged in order for volunteers to feel motivated to continue working at the organisation. Recommendations are made for ways in which the organisation can meet the supportive needs of volunteers, the most imperative being that volunteers receive emotional support through supervision and debriefing.