Lifeline gets $8.2 million boost to open text and web chat service

The mental health support and suicide prevention hotline is getting a long-awaited revamp.

Lifeline has secured $8.2 million in funding to expand its lifesaving text and web chat services for people needing life saving crisis support.

The not-for-profit service offers 24/7 support over the phone and online to any Australian who is experiencing a mental health crisis or suicidal thoughts.

NSW Mental Health Minister Rose Jackson told reporters on Sunday the $8.2 million investment from the state government comes as demand for the service reached new heights in recent years.

In 2022, Lifeline received about 360,000 calls from people in NSW needing crisis support – a drop of about 20,000 on the previous year.

Lifeline service to expand to text and webchat services. Picture: NCA NewsWire

“We know that unfortunately, as a result of the pandemic, bushfires, floods, and now the cost of living crisis, we're seeing more and more people needing to reach out for help,” Ms Jackson said.

She said the decision to fund these services was targeted and aimed to ensure that everyone is able to access help even when making a phone call may be a safety risk.

“It’s particularly important if you think about young people, if you think about people in domestic violence situations, where making the phone call can be a safety risk,” she said.

The new services aim to target people who are unable to make phone calls when in crisis. Picture: NCA NewsWire

“The capacity to chat online or via text, is a really important way to reach out without that barrier of actually having to make a phone call because for some people that is particularly challenging.”

Lifeline volunteers are trained to listen, provide immediate support, help clarify options and choices as well as share information about local services.

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA, NCA NewsWIRE, Sunday, 9 July 2023.Lifeline GenericsPicture: NCA NewsWIRE, Monique Harmer

Lifeline Australia Chief Executive Officer Colin Seery said the government’s investment will go in part towards providing specialised training for volunteers as well as funding the technology.

Anyone experiencing a crisis can call the below helplines for support and advice: Lifeline 13 11 14 | Kids Helpline 1800 55 1800 | Beyond Blue 1300 224 636

To be connected with specialist mental health services, call the NSW Mental Health Line 1800 011 511.

Originally published as Lifeline gets $8.2 million boost to open text and web chat service