The Listening Service at The Sanctuary of Peace & Healing
The Monastery Manchester
The Need to Talk
In challenging times, having someone to talk to can be a lifeline. For many, sharing struggles with loved ones is difficult, and some may not have anyone to confide in. Research shows that talking openly about our feelings can prevent long-term mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, and stress. There was a time when community spaces like churches and local pubs served as gathering places for sharing life’s joys and burdens. Today, however, many people find themselves isolated and disconnected. The Listening Service at the Sanctuary of Peace and Healing aims to fill this gap, providing a safe, welcoming space where anyone can find support.
About the Listening Service
Our Listening Service offers an informal and compassionate environment for people to share their thoughts and feelings. The sessions are led by trained volunteer Listeners who have completed a 9-week accredited course in effective listening, along with safeguarding and risk management training. All volunteers hold a DBS certification, ensuring the safety and well-being of those seeking support.
The service allows people to discuss whatever is on their mind, without fear of judgment or pressure. Sessions can last up to one hour, and individuals may book up to three sessions. The aim is to provide a space where visitors can experience genuine human connection and begin to explore pathways for ongoing support. Listener volunteers are available from Sunday to Thursday, meeting visitors in a private, serene setting within the Monastery’s beautiful grounds.
How Your Donation Helps
Your support is crucial in keeping the Listening Service accessible to all. Funds raised will directly contribute to:
- Access for Those in Need: Sometimes a small gift of funds can go a long way to alleviating the stress or urgency of a situation. Donations give us the ability to come to the financial aid of the most vulnerable attending our service.
- Training and Expanding Our Volunteer Team: Continuous training for our volunteer Listeners allows us to maintain the high quality of care and support we offer. With your help, we can increase the number of trained Listeners available, reducing waiting times and reaching more people in need.
- Sustaining the Service: Donations help cover the ongoing costs associated with providing a safe, supportive space for listening sessions, ensuring that anyone, regardless of financial circumstances, can access this essential service for free.
By contributing, you are not just supporting an individual; you are helping to build a stronger, more connected community where everyone has the opportunity to be heard and valued.
How You Can Help
The Charity Common Change believes, like we do, that “Together there is enough”.
- Donate: Make a one-time or monthly donation to support the ongoing costs of training, supervision, and service delivery.
- Spread the Word: Share our mission with friends and family to help us reach those who may need our support.
By contributing, you are not just supporting an individual; you are helping to build a stronger, more connected community where everyone has the opportunity to be heard and valued.
Thank you for helping us listen.
To learn more about The Listening Service, please visit our website https://www.themonastery.co.uk/sanctuary-manchester/free-counselling-manchester/
Dr. Jeannine Goh
Psychologist, Educator, Co-Director
The Sanctuary of Peace & Healing, The Manchester Monastery
With over 25 years of teaching experience at The Open University and formerly The University of Manchester, Dr. Jeannine Goh is a psychologist and educator specializing in self-mastery.
As Co-Director of The Sanctuary at The Monastery, she leads a free Listening and Counselling Service dedicated to supporting those in mental distress. A BWY-certified yoga teacher with lived experience of anxiety, Jeannine is passionate about helping individuals navigate their inner world and empowering others through the transformative practice of compassionate listening.
Gemma Jones
IFS Practitioner, Co-Director
The Sanctuary of Peace & Healing, The Manchester Monastery
Since 2020, I’ve been proud to co-direct and support the Sanctuary of Peace and Healing, where I helped establish the Listening Service and continue to provide training and ongoing support to our incredible team of volunteer Listeners.
As a Certified Internal Family Systems (IFS) Practitioner, I also run a private online practice, delivering practical, down-to-earth guidance in IFS-informed practices. My passion lies in helping others connect deeply within themselves and, in turn, foster compassionate connections within their communities. I believe that true listening—both inward and outward—has the power to create more empathetic, connected communities.
Nina Rudnick
Health & Wellbeing Manager
The Sanctuary of Peace of Healing & The Monastery Manchester
As Health & Wellbeing Manager at The Monastery Manchester and The Sanctuary of Peace & Healing, Nina is passionate about supporting the local community and enhancing well-being. She takes great joy in working with the incredible visitors to The Monastery and those who connect with the Sanctuary’s services.
Deeply committed to the Sanctuary’s Listening Service and its amazing volunteers, Nina helps coordinate a diverse program of well-being activities designed to nurture mind, body, and spirit. And when she’s not at The Monastery, she’s happily spending time with her two beloved cats! 🐾
