CRISIS support service Lifeline recently launched its largest ever fundraising campaign, calling on Australians to donate and help hardworking volunteers answer the one million requests for help received annually.
A national day that will take place on November 1 each year, the campaign’s message is “you don’t have to wear something, do without something, make something, sell something, or run somewhere … all you have to do is give”.
Lifeline South East chief executive Eve Barratt said with the suicide rate of eight per day in Australia, it is vital no call goes unanswered.
“The only way to make sure that happens is to have more people on the phones,” she said.
“A lot of people think Lifeline is a government service because it is everywhere, which is fantastic, but it is not 100pc government funded and we have to make sure that we can always answer the calls, which can get really overwhelming.”
With a call to one of the many dedicated crisis supporters costing around $26 to fund, Lifeline Australia chairman John Brogden said they do not have the resources to answer every call immediately.
“This is particularly heartbreaking when you consider the enormous strength and courage it takes for someone to reach out when they are struggling,” he said.
“So this campaign is about making sure people in crisis or thinking about suicide never have to be alone.
“We’re asking Australians to dig deep and donate to Lifeline – every Australian can help save a life, all you have to do is give.”
Mr Brodgen said a $26 donation can make a profound difference, with funds going towards costs such as recruitment, training, equipment and supervision.
“It can save friends, families and whole communities the heartache of losing someone to suicide,” he said.
Visit www.lifelineforlifeline.org.au for more information or to donate.
Lifeline’s 24/7 crisis support or suicide prevention services are available on 131 114.
