Lifeline Calls for Support
Lifeline Queensland is always on hand to answer calls, but today, is making an emergency appeal for funds to get more people on the phones as demand for Lifeline Crisis Support services continues to increase.
Crisis Supporters are already responding to a surge in demand and expect it to continue, long after the floodwaters recede.
Lifeline’s Luke Lindsay said the immediate focus is on the physical impacts during natural disasters, but what is just as damaging are the effects not seen but felt.
“Emotional distress is very real and can be harrowing. Without early intervention, it can cause longer-lasting impacts for individuals and the broader community. That is why Lifeline is so vital, in that we are part of the response providing emotional support to anyone who needs it,” Mr Lindsay said.
“Right now, we have to power-up our Crisis Services—we need more Crisis Supporters on the phone to ensure we can answer every call,” he said.
Because of that need to be there for others, Lifeline is calling out for support with a Flood Emergency Appeal.
Lifeline is Queensland’s most recognised and relied on crisis support service. Twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week, anyone can reach out to Lifeline, where a fully-qualified Crisis Supporter provides compassion and support.
“Lifeline Crisis Support Services are funded by our network of retail shops and fundraising events, but already this year, they have taken a massive hit,” Mr Lindsay.
“COVID-19 forced the cancellation of the January 2022 Bookfest, the third Bookfest to have been cancelled- and these are our biggest fundraising events, leaving us without substantial funds.
“The recent closure and loss of stock across our retail shops have also impacted proceeds which go directly to funding the service.
“We are committed to keeping all our phone lines and services open, but to do it, we need everyone who knows the value of our Lifeline Crisis Support services to donate what you can. Donating will enable us to train more Crisis Supporters and ensure we always have people available to answer the phones,” he said.
To donate go to: lifelineqld.org.au/floodappeal
Need support?
Lifeline is here to listen. For free, non-judgmental, confidential support at any time, reach out to Lifeline. Contact Lifeline support services 24/7:
Telephone Crisis Support: 13 11 14
Text Crisis Support: 0477 13 11 14
Online Chat: www.lifeline.org.au/crisis-chat/
Ends
For further information call Faith Jarvis on 0447 013 049
About Lifeline Queensland:
UnitingCare delivers the 24 hour 13 11 14 Lifeline Crisis Support line through 10 Lifeline centres – providing suicide prevention services with a non-judgemental and compassionate listening ear. It also provides Lifeline's disaster recovery program, Community Recovery as well as individual and group support services.