Volunteers help Lifeline Australia with post bushfire and flood needs

Following an appeal from Lifeline Australia, telephone counsellors from across the country have begun to fill extra shifts to help support people affected by the current bushfire and flood disasters.

This is in conjunction with the work already being undertaken by Lifeline to assist in the community’s response and recovery.

“Lifeline has volunteers sitting by the phone throughout Australia to assist anyone who is struggling to cope with the emotional impact of these events,” Lifeline Australia chief executive officer, Dawn O’Neil, said.

“If you need someone to talk to, call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or the Rural Support Line on 1300 655 969 in Victoria. I also want to take this opportunity to thank all the volunteers and staff who are already working very hard to assist in the response to these two tragedies.”

Lifeline is assisting the community in the follow ways:

In Victoria

• Provision of volunteer trauma response at a number of recovery centres in Victoria

• Working with the local government’s of Wellington, Latrobe, Gippsland and Baw Baw to provide team visits to affected households

• Provision of on phone support

• Assisting with clothing and other items when required

• Follow-up sessions

• Support to local media organisations

In Queensland

• On the ground recovery teams in the flooded areas of Far North Queensland

• Psychological first aid

• Outreach services

• Coordination with other agencies

National Wide

• Provision of information online at www.lifeline.org.au

• Regular 13 11 14 telephone support service

• Provision of a tool kit for parents who have children affected by the fires and trauma

“It is heartening to see the commitment and dedication of our volunteers and staff during a crisis like this one,” Ms O’Neil said.