While we have left 2020 behind, the stressors and issues caused by the pandemic and its impact continue. People are dealing with so much: medical concerns, anxiety, financial uncertainty, the pressures all this places on relationships, careers, families, and the need for support or to just not feel alone is greater than ever. Our goal is to get the Lifeline to be a 24-hour service, and to do that, we need volunteers to take on the challenge and train as support workers.

If you think you are a good listener, that you can be there for others and sit with them in their pain or distress, then maybe the Lifeline is a good fit for you. You can develop active listening skills that will help you both professionally and personally; become part of a community of individuals committed to addressing the stigmas surrounding mental health; and also give something back to the community.

The next course begins on February 27th, and comprises an initial 10 week in class period teaching the listening skills and how to use them effectively on the phone and chat platforms. The course can be pursued entirely online and comprises online weekly seminars, (including mandatory sessions on Feb 27th; Apr 10th and May 22nd), watching presentations, completing reading, journalling and practical application of the skills in role play practice. Volunteers must also complete an apprenticeship period with the line, which includes longer role plays on specific topics and supervised shifts on the Lifeline. In total, the course typically takes 4-5 months to complete.

If you think this is something you might want to pursue, you can find more information on our website or contact TELL’s Lifeline Training Coordinator, Jane.

We are looking forward to hearing from you!