When John* called Lifeline Sydney & Sutherland, he was cold and alone in his van as thunder rumbled like distant artillery. Each boom dragged him back to memories he’d fought to forget.
Taking his own life felt like the only way out, but in one last show of strength, he picked up his phone.
John’s story is a reminder of the silent battles veterans face long after service. PTSD can leave people trapped in distress, but one call can mean hope.
“I know I’m making a tangible difference for people in their times of darkness, so I always finish my shift feeling good,” says Nikki, volunteer Crisis Supporter at Lifeline Sydney & Sutherland.
Nikki joined Lifeline at the end of 2020 while in her first year of a psychology degree, seeking practical experience.
“The training was phenomenal. I trained with people from all walks of life, and the model worked for everyone, regardless of their experience,” she says. “Ongoing, I’ve felt incredibly supported by amazing mentors.” ...
Now in her second year of a combined master's and PhD program in clinical psychology, Nikki finds her work at Lifeline immensely fulfilling. She has supported individuals with PTSD, suicidal thoughts, psychotic episodes, and other crises. For Nikki, helping someone in their darker moments is a privilege.
“No matter what’s happening, 99.9% of the time I walk out of there feeling better than when I walked in.”
Nikki believes having a compassionate nature and genuine desire is what makes a good Crisis Supporter.
“That’s what draws people to the role – the rest is covered in training. So, for anyone considering learning more, just do it, you won’t look back!”
We urgently need to recruit and train more volunteer Crisis Supporters like Nikki amidst ever-increasing numbers of people desperately needing our help.
With demand rising, one in five calls to Lifeline Sydney & Sutherland risks going unanswered. Your support ensures trained volunteers are always there when someone like John needs help. Donate today to provide life-saving support when it’s needed most.
Partner with us today to give hope to Australians facing heartache and hardship
No one should have to face their darkest times alone. Here are five ways your gift today will change the lives of people in crisis.
$39
Answer a call for help
Enable one volunteer Crisis Supporter to answer a lifesaving call.
$149
Strengthen communities to fight suicide
Equip communities across Australia to prevent suicide through Wesley LifeForce training.
$290
Offer comfort and connection
Educate ten people to recognise and help someone that is at risk of suicide through suicide prevention training.
$500
Support 24/7
Keep our call centres open for people in crisis 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
$1,190
Train a volunteer Crisis Supporter
Provide professional training to one volunteer Crisis Supporter, empowering them to support people in desperate need.
Other ways to donate
Our fundraising team can answer all your questions about donating or point you in the right direction if you choose to support us. Speak to them on 1800 021 821.
Mailing address
Wesley Mission Fundraising, PO Box A270 Sydney South NSW 1235
Download the Charitabl. app
Find it on the App Store or Google Play, search for 'Wesley Mission" and swipe to give!
Direct deposit
BSB 062 000 A/C 1384 9827 Ref: Your name or donor number
