Lifeline doesn't only make a difference to the people who call the crisis support line, it can also make a difference to the crisis supporters who take the calls.
With a course information night taking place on Monday, 13 January, we spoke to two volunteers who are making a difference in the community.
Gaining real life experience
Ishrel Lequin has been a crisis supporter for more than a year.
Ish, as he is known to everyone, was doing a Bachelor of Social Work but decided to take a gap year and gain some real life experience, by becoming a Lifeline crisis supporter.
“No amount of theory can prepare you for the real world,” Ish said.
“I could never pay back the experience I’ve received with Lifeline.
“It’s been an invaluable learning experience and huge help to my career.”
So much so that Ish, now in his third year of his Bachelor of Social Work has a 16-week placement with Uniting Care.
Volunteering rewards and challenges
Meanwhile, Bill Fisher started with Lifeline nine years ago.
“I’ve been volunteering in some form or another for most of my adult life,” Bill said.
“My main role with Lifeline is as a telephone crisis supporter.
“A number of us also assist with Community Recovery after natural disasters.
“I had long respected the role Lifeline plays, and thought I might have suitable skills, and so opted to apply to undertake the training.
“The impact and incidence of suicide in the community is a critical issue in this role.”
Bill said he would encourage people with a desire to support those in distress to see if it’s for them.
“It is an effective and important service to the community and contributing to that service is rewarding as well as challenging.”
Course information night
Anyone interested in becoming a Lifeline crisis supporter is invited to the course information night on Monday, 13 January at Uniting Care.
Also at the information night, two scholarships will be announced for Lifeline’s crisis supporter workplace training 2020.
RSVPs should be made by Wednesday, 8 January via email bg.cswt@uccommunity.org.au or by calling 4153 8400.
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