LIFELINE has experienced record call rates in January to the 131 114 service.

Advertise with News of The Area today.
It’s worth it for your business.
Message us.
Phone us – (02) 4981 8882.
Email us – media@newsofthearea.com.au

It had close to one hundred thousand calls in January 2021 alone.

That is the highest ever number of calls received in the history of Lifeline which began in 1963.

According to Jason D’Onofrio, Lifeline Trainer and Crisis Team Manager the two busiest days were January 4 and 5.

“We were alerted to the fact that there are many people in our community who are in distress and need to reach out for help.

“We believe this a combination of trauma from the summer 2019/20 bushfires and the uncertainty of COVID-19.”

Mr D’Onofrio said, “A positive to this is that we have had record numbers of available Crisis Supporters, who we owe this amazing service.

“These are people from all over our region who have stepped up to learn how to be a crisis supporter then provide a skilled service to all Australians in a volunteer capacity.”

Mr D’Onofrio said Lifeline North Coast is continuing to look for volunteers to learn how to become one of their trusted Crisis Supporters within the provision of Lifeline’s 131 114 Crisis Line.

“We normally hold just one of two intakes per year,” he said.

The next training session will be on Wednesday 17th February at 10am.

Please call Lifeline North Coast for any further information on 02 6651 4093.

Lifeline opportunity shops also assist those in need and need more volunteers in its second hand shops.

Coffs Harbour’s Lifeline Shop Volunteer Coordinator, Cheryl Post told News Of The Area that for every thirty nine dollars raised they can save a life.

“We are quite different from other charities.

“We raise money to keep Crisis Support people on the phones.

“They are highly trained to listen to and assist people in preventing suicide.

“Without volunteers, both make and female we would not be able to open our retail shops,” she said.

Louise Langley, Lifeline Coffs Harbour’s Retail and Business Manager added, “We encourage and accept volunteers in our warehouse of all abilities including the neuro diverse.”

By Sandra MOON