This crucial service is at risk—ensure it continues helping those in need
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A vital support service has comforted countless Australians facing loss and hardship for years.
Offering a compassionate space for those in need has been a source of strength during life's most challenging moments.
This essential lifeline is at risk, and the community must come together to help preserve it.
The news that Griefline Helpline will cease operations on 18 March has sent shockwaves through the community.
'The closure of the Helpline is heartbreaking, not only for the 2,000 callers each month who will need to find an alternative free telephone and online support but also for our dedicated team of seven staff and 150 active volunteers, who have provided an essential service with passion and care,' Kate Cahill, the CEO of Griefline said.
'Our volunteers donate over 15,000 hours each year to hold space for grieving individuals, ensuring that no one feels alone in their loss.'
The helpline's volunteers are trained to assist with all forms of grief, providing a unique and compassionate service that is irreplaceable.
It's a service that is vital for Aussies who are struggling but do not require crisis intervention or clinical care.
This closure will undoubtedly increase pressure on already stretched crisis services, GPs, and public health providers, many of whom consider Griefline a key referral service.
Despite being funded by the Commonwealth Department of Health and Aged Care since 2020 and achieving accreditation under the National Safety and Quality Digital Mental Health Standards, Griefline has been unable to secure the necessary funding to continue.
For 18 months, the organisation has sought financial support from the federal government, philanthropy, and corporate partnerships.
While some funding has been secured, it falls short of what is needed to sustain their early intervention grief support services.
The recent announcement that Prime Minister Anthony Albanese intervened to continue funding for the charity Red Nose after a 'bureaucratic error' led to a $6 million funding shortfall gives us hope.
It shows that vital services like these can be saved with enough public support and awareness.
Talk about Griefline with friends and family, share information on social media, and tell your local representatives how vital this service is to the community.
Consider donating to Griefline or participating in fundraising activities. Every little bit helps.
Moreover, if you have skills in grant writing or connections to philanthropic organisations, now is the time to step forward.
Griefline offers support groups and online help, which may be avenues for volunteering your time and expertise.
As members of the Seniors Discount Club, we understand the value of community and support in times of need.
Let's come together to save Griefline, a helpline that has been a friend to many for nearly 40 years.
Remember, in times of grief, no one should have to feel alone. Let's ensure that Griefline can continue to be there for those who need it most.
Share your stories of how Griefline or similar services have helped you or your loved ones, and let's start a conversation that could lead to saving this invaluable resource.
Offering a compassionate space for those in need has been a source of strength during life's most challenging moments.
This essential lifeline is at risk, and the community must come together to help preserve it.
The news that Griefline Helpline will cease operations on 18 March has sent shockwaves through the community.
'The closure of the Helpline is heartbreaking, not only for the 2,000 callers each month who will need to find an alternative free telephone and online support but also for our dedicated team of seven staff and 150 active volunteers, who have provided an essential service with passion and care,' Kate Cahill, the CEO of Griefline said.
The Griefline Helpline was set to shut down due to funding cuts. Credit: PeopleImages / iStock
The helpline's volunteers are trained to assist with all forms of grief, providing a unique and compassionate service that is irreplaceable.
The loss of Griefline will leave a significant gap in Australia's mental health support system. It's a service that is vital for Aussies who are struggling but do not require crisis intervention or clinical care.
This closure will undoubtedly increase pressure on already stretched crisis services, GPs, and public health providers, many of whom consider Griefline a key referral service.
Despite being funded by the Commonwealth Department of Health and Aged Care since 2020 and achieving accreditation under the National Safety and Quality Digital Mental Health Standards, Griefline has been unable to secure the necessary funding to continue.
For 18 months, the organisation has sought financial support from the federal government, philanthropy, and corporate partnerships.
While some funding has been secured, it falls short of what is needed to sustain their early intervention grief support services.
The recent announcement that Prime Minister Anthony Albanese intervened to continue funding for the charity Red Nose after a 'bureaucratic error' led to a $6 million funding shortfall gives us hope.
It shows that vital services like these can be saved with enough public support and awareness.
Talk about Griefline with friends and family, share information on social media, and tell your local representatives how vital this service is to the community.
Consider donating to Griefline or participating in fundraising activities. Every little bit helps.
Moreover, if you have skills in grant writing or connections to philanthropic organisations, now is the time to step forward.
Griefline offers support groups and online help, which may be avenues for volunteering your time and expertise.
As members of the Seniors Discount Club, we understand the value of community and support in times of need.
Let's come together to save Griefline, a helpline that has been a friend to many for nearly 40 years.
Remember, in times of grief, no one should have to feel alone. Let's ensure that Griefline can continue to be there for those who need it most.
