Managing wellbeing

Depending on the nature of the unforeseen event, rapid response collecting may have an impact on the wellbeing of those involved at the time or later. Many people may not have experienced collecting events which may be traumatic and which can be complex. Even if people have previous experience, they may be affected differently and their responses may change from day to day. Engaging in rapid response collecting can be a positive experience, but it also presents the risk of secondary trauma.

It is important to ensure that those involved are not in unsafe situations, are able to take regular breaks, and their physical welfare is provided for with refreshments and comfort facilities.

Whatever the scope of your rapid response collecting, be aware that not everyone will feel the same way and that they may feel differently from day to day. There is more information in ‘Who is involved?’, under ‘Initial evaluation‘.

You may find the health and wellbeing guidance from the Archive and Records Association helpful. The Manchester Together Archive produced a case study on emotional support for volunteers (PDF, 0.4MB).

Featured case study: University of Stirling

If you need help for a mental health crisis or emergency, you should get immediate expert advice and assessment.

 

It’s important to know that support services are available for you to access, whatever you’re going through.

 

In the UK call 999 or go to A&E now if:

 

  • someone’s life is at risk
  • you do not feel you can keep yourself or someone else safe

A mental health emergency should be taken as seriously as a physical one. You will not be wasting anyone’s time.

 

Get urgent advice from 111 online or call 111 and select the mental health option.

 

Ask for an urgent GP appointment.

 

Free listening services offer confidential support from trained volunteers. You can talk about anything that’s troubling you, no matter how difficult: