As part of their yearly recruitment drive, Lifeline Mid Coast are seeking ordinary people to become extraordinary volunteers, helping people when they need it most.
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Lifeline Mid Coast answered 17,430 calls in 2017, up over 1000 call from 2016, and provided 100 interventions for imminent suicide, and with more than 80 crisis phone supporters in the area, their role is more important than ever before.
Mid Coast head trainer Di Bannister said that Lifeline are looking for people who are willing to help others and not be judgmental.
“Training to be a volunteer telephone crisis supporter is both challenging and rewarding, and carries with it many benefits which include obtaining a nationally recognised qualification and providing an essential service to the community.
“We are looking for people who are self aware, empathetic and who are non judgmental to listen and respond to those who are calling in to Lifeline,” Ms Bannister said.
Ms Bannister also said that Lifeline are particularly wanting to recruit people who would never think they could do the job.
“We are not expecting our volunteers to come in knowing everything, and there are so many people out there who would be great volunteers but would never think they could do the role.
“Our volunteers have initial training and then will have ongoing training as they continue covering the phones helping people all over the country,” she said.
Lifeline Mid Coast marketing manager Lisa Willows said that those who do volunteer comment that volunteering is a life changing experience for them as well.
“We have many of a phone supporters say that they have gotten a lot out volunteering with us and well as the self belief that they are tangibly helping others as well.
“At the moment we have over 80 phone supporters but we are down on last years volunteering numbers so it is really important that we recruit more people,” Ms Willows said.
Mid Coast head trainer Di Bannister also said that Lifeline Mid Coast are holding an information session on January 16 at Westport Bowling Club for those who are interested and wanting to learn more.
“We are wanting those who want to learn more to come along to our information night and see what it is all about as we are starting our next round of training in February,” Ms Bannister said.
If you or anyone you know needs support call Lifeline 24 hours 7 days a week on 13 11 14, or visit Lifeline.org.au.
