I'm a Samaritan - would you put it on an application form?

[jobapplicationthinking]

Just that really. Have NC for this. I'm a listening volunteer for Samaritans. I am also the statistician for my branch and run and update the website.
Times have changed and Samaritans are no longer required to keep their volunteering secret but would you put it on an application form (under the hobbies and interests bit?) for a class teacher SEN role.
One the one hand it shows lots of skills in terms of organisation, time management, data management, IT skills, listening skills and empathy. On the other hand is it a bit weird to put it down? will people have preconceived ideas about me? Is it too controversial - I know some people may object to the no advice no intervention stance.. I have a 10 month old DS so don't really have many other hobbies to put down!

I would definitely put it down! I think the work that the Samaritans does is amazing, so I'd definitely be impressed. I'm not a HT though, so would be interesting to hear their views. Also, if you don't put it down, and then they ask at interview about non-work interests, it may come across that you're trying to hide something.

I suppose you could say something like 'I work for a charity, but would prefer not to divulge the exact nature of my role'. I'd just be honest though and tell them. My thinking is that if an employer doesn't like something about you, then maybe you wouldn't fit in anyway?

I would put it down or at least allude to it.

I would put it down. I work in the voluntary sector and I know that being a Samaritan involves a lot more than many other volunteer roles - the selection and training process is very rigorous and it is a real commitment. I would be very impressed if I saw it on a CV.

I would too, definitely.
Can I just say what a fantastic contribution to society.
I so wish I could do this.

Oops, I turned a wrong corner and ended up in The Staffroom . I'm a parent of a SN child with a statement, and I had a little amount of input in the selection of her 1:1 TA. I'd say definitely put your Samaritan involvement on your application :) Good luck OP.

I was a Samaritan when applying for PGCE. I put it in my personal statement and it's on my CV and applications for subsequent jobs. I'm proud of doing it and think it shows a very good side to your character. I got involved with lots of pastoral issues in my previous school and the named person was happy for my involvement when he knew I had been a Samaritan. Hats off to you that you find the time to carry it on, I gave up when my PGCE started.

Absolutely, yes.