Becoming a local contact
Would you like to become more involved with The Hysterectomy Association by becoming a local contact in your area?
One of the questions we are most frequently asked is ‘can you tell me who I can talk to in my area please?” In most instances there is no one we can refer them on to. However, although our forums are good, many women would like to meet with and talk to others who are going through the same thing, possibly at the same hospital and with the same surgeon so that they can compare notes.
Also, many women still don’t have access to the Internet and so our website - even with all of it’s resources, is just not available to them.
Therefore we have come up with the idea of having a network of local contacts who provide a very simple ‘listening ear’ service that gives women the opportunity to talk through their fears and concerns without judgment and get that opportunity to compare notes.
How does a ‘hysterectomy listening ear’ service work?
Being a ‘listening ear’ is simple, you simply have to listen, you won’t be giving out information or advice and we would suggest that you stick to only what was your experience. We will require you to read through as much of the information we have on the website as possible so that you are acquainted with everything someone may ask of you.
However, we don’t provide formal training and you will be responsible for the information that you give out.
Every person that becomes a ‘listening ear’ will be given their own unique 0845 telephone number which means that your home telephone number remains private at all times. We will also list your name on our website together with this number and the times you have said you would be available to answer calls.
You may decide that you would like to sell our books and other products as well and we offer these to you at a hugely reduced cost and you would then sell them at the full retail price. You will find an order form here.
Can I do anything else?
You may decide that you would like to undergo our Accredited Local Contact Training Programme which will provide you with the skills and knowledge to run Preparing For Hysterectomy workshops in your area and also provide coffee shop meetings. Everyone that becomes accredited in this way will also be provided with business cards, posters and leaflets to distribute that will advertise their services.
Everyone that joins us as either a ‘listening ear’ or an accredited local contact will get a regular newsletter that keeps you up to date with what is new in the world of hysterectomy. We will also be introducing workshops and training days later in the year which you will be able to attend if you would like to.
Our Values and Ideals
The Hysterectomy Assoication prides itself on trying to give impartial, timely and appropriate information. Our role is not to encourage a specific outcome to any person’s situation, but rather to ensure they have enough information to be able to make an informed decision. If you have a very definite view about whether hysterectomy is positive or negative then this opportunity may not be for you. We need to be able to ensure all of our clients make their decisions for themselves and do not feel pushed into any particular course of action by anyone.
At times this can mean that we sit on the fence somewhat and I would encourage you to restrict your own perspective, even if you are being pushed to make a statement by someone else.
Hysterectomy may be positive for some women and negative for others, and it often isn’t possible to identify which group someone may fall into before they have their operation. Encouraging open debate about hysterectomy is far better in the long term as then everyone feels that they have made the decision that is right for them.
Potential Issues To Bear In Mind
We would suggest is that you try not to give out information unless you are certain you have the knowledge required to back it up, we would also suggest that you NEVER GIVE ADVICE, this is because the world is being more litigious and if you give someone advice that turns out to have a negative impact you may be sued.
Insurance is not provided by The Hysterectomy Association and is your responsibility to arrange, if you feel it is necessary. Insurance issues might include acquiring additional insurance to cover you if you have a meeting in your home or in another venue.
You may feel that you are unable to handle some clients in a way that is appropriate for you and for them. If this is ever the case, then we would strongly recommend that you refer them onto the main office.
It is far better to admit it if you don’t know something than to try to give the wrong information. If you find yourself doing this then please contact us as we may be able to provide you with the information you need and you can then pass it on.
How do I get started?
If you would like to join us and become a ‘listening ear’, then please download the application form send it back to us at:
The Hysterectomy Association
The Gables, 10a Acreman Close,
Cerne Abbas, Dorchester,
Dorset, DT2 7JU
Once we have received your completed application we will review the information and then contact you by ‘phone to discuss it. If you have any questions at all, please contact us on either the telephone at 0871 7811141 or by email to info@hysterectomy-association.org.uk.
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