Lifeline has launched a new Australia-wide 13 HELP (13 43 57) dedicated bushfire recovery phone line to offer support for people affected by bushfires.
The phone line is available 24 hours a day and seven days a week in response to increased demand for Lifeline’s service. Since December last year, Lifeline has recorded a 10 per cent increase in calls to its 13 11 14 service, with call volume spiking at over 14 per cent on some days.
The phone service is staffed by highly skilled crisis supporters who are available to listen to and offer support to people who are struggling – no matter what stage of recovery their community is in.
The service will be available for as long as it is required in recognition that many people won’t experience trauma for months or even years to come.
For further information on bushfire recovery and support, refer to our Mental Health Response to Natural Disasters and Trauma page.