Volunteers needed for unprecedented call rates

LIFELINE Ballarat are making a final call for expressions of interest to become crisis support counsellors, reflecting the community’s diverse backgrounds and experiences over the phone.

The local call centre now has 55 active volunteers, from youths to 80 years old, listening to those calling in with personal crises surrounding anxiety, depression, suicide, isolation, grief, addictions, family breakdowns, or finances.

But program manager, Jodie Van Schie said her team needs more help to respond to current unprecedented call rates.

“In Ballarat, our calls have increased by 25 per cent. We’re now receiving more than 900 calls a month. We answer calls from any state or region in Australia,” she said.

“We’re looking to recruit at least another 10 to 15 crisis supporters. They’ve really stepped up in the last few months, assisted us in reaching an all-time call answer rate of 95.62 per cent in May.”

During a Lifeline shift, volunteers head into the phone room, log in, report to their in-shift supervisor, receive calls for two to four hours, then have a “vital” debrief with their supervisor once they log off so they’re also supported in case of “vicarious trauma.”

Crisis supporter, Kaye Bennett has volunteered for 11 years.

“It’s satisfying and fulfilling to be there for someone who needs someone to talk to,” she said.

“Give it a go. It’s not easy, it takes time, but the rewards are great. If you can just help one person, it’s heart-warming.”

Applications close this Friday, 26 June. Visit lifeline.org.au/ballarat/lifeline-ballarat-home.