Get Involved > Who We Are

SOS Help is a listening service provided by volunteers who come from all walks of life and share the same commitment to the welfare of people.

We come from countries in North America, Asia, Australasia and Europe.

Our listeners complete 3 months of training with professional therapists/psychologists and supervision by experienced listeners before answering the phone line alone, and thereafter continue to receive ongoing professional guidance and team support.

Founded in 1974 by a group of American and British health and mental health professionals, with the help of Chad Varah, founder of the Samaritans, and with the support of Paris-based English speaking organisations such as the English and American churches and the American Hospital, SOS Help is a non-profit organisation recognised under the French law of 1901.

SOS Help is a branch of France’s SOS Amitié Federation and is linked to the Samaritans.

Our organisation relies on the work of our volunteers, both listeners and non-listeners, and on donations as well as proceeds from our fundraising events.

We are grateful for the support and encouragement of our Honorary Patron, Lady Westmacott. Traditionally the wife of the British Ambassador fills this important role and we are thankful for her continued involvement in SOS Help. We also appreciate the ongoing efforts of our Honorary Members and former Patrons, Lady Jay and Lady Holmes.