Connecting our local community: Meet the Lifeline Northern Beaches volunteers

At Lifeline Northern Beaches, volunteers are an essential part of our organisation. Their time, dedication, and commitment make it possible for us to provide crisis support and suicide prevention services to our community. 

Among the more than 640 remarkable individuals who volunteer with us is Will, a Crisis Line Supporter, whose story highlights the important role our volunteers play in our community.

Meet Will, Volunteer Crisis Line Supporter at Lifeline Northern Beaches

“I first came across Lifeline Northern Beaches through their “Accidental Counsellor” course which I attended with my running club. Curiosity led me to their Crisis Supporter training. I’d been searching for a cause to volunteer for, and this felt like the right fit. The training was thorough and supportive, and now, at stage 3, I am taking calls and connecting with people in need.

“My connection to Lifeline is quite personal. At just 18, I lost my first friend from school to suicide. Over the years, I’ve lost five more friends. It’s something I’ve always been confused about, often wondering how someone’s life could spiral to that point.

“The Crisis Support training at Lifeline Northern Beaches opened my eyes. It taught me how easily life can unravel – whether finances, health, family…things can fall apart so fast. There are many paths to crisis, and when isolation takes hold, suicide can feel like the only way out. It’s heartbreaking, but it’s made me determined to help others before they reach that tipping point.

“I’ll never forget the first time I picked up the phone, I was so nervous. You’re talking to someone in a delicate state, and it’s a huge responsibility. But then I reminded myself: I’m just a human helping another human.

“What I’ve learned is that you can help someone by simply being present – sitting with them in their discomfort, pain, or sorrow. Active listening, without judgment or prejudice, makes a world of difference. It’s incredible hearing the shift in someone’s voice as they move from distress to calm. Sometimes, all someone needs is to feel heard, and that’s what we’re here for.”

Join the Lifeline Northern Beaches Volunteer Team in 2025

Volunteers like Will are the heart of Lifeline Northern Beaches, and we’re always looking for more people to join our community. Whether it’s supporting our retail stores, lending a hand at book fairs or events, or becoming a trained Crisis Line Supporter, there are many ways to get involved.

Volunteering at Lifeline Northern Beaches is about more than just giving your time – it’s about fostering community connection, having fun with a supportive team, and knowing you’re making a real difference.

If you’re ready to make an impact and support local suicide prevention and crisis support services, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at admin@lifeline.org.au