By Sofia Berezin
ANU has launched a phone line to support students outside of business hours. Facilitated by University Crisis Line (a Lifeline Direct unit), this new telephone line will help students experiencing difficulties reach out to immediate help after hours, including on weekends and public holidays.
Working alongside the ANU Counselling Centre, this line is funded by the Student Services and Amenities Fee (SSAF), being managed by the Division of Student Life. and In an ANU press release, Managing Director Niall Mulligan says the line “is intended to help callers find immediate relief from emotional distress,” and can refer a caller to a more acute service if deemed necessary. Additionally, the service also accepts text messages so students are able to seek help “discreetly”.
PARSA has endorsed the new service. President Zyl Hovenga-Wauchope is “thankful to the university for their commitment” and has ‘confidence in the parties managing (it)’.
This service has been operating since the 18th of February and is available between 5pm and 9am Australian Eastern Standard Time weekdays, and 24 hours on weekends and public holidays. To ring the service, students can contact 1300 050 327, or sent a text message to 0488 884 170. ANU directs students overseas to use the text service, or contact the ANU Counselling Centre directly.
ANUSA did not respond to Observer’s request for comment.
Other support services are available:
ANU Counselling: 02 6125 2442 (9am-5pm, Mon-Fri)
Lifeline: 13 11 14 (24/7)
Canberra Rape Crisis Centre: (02) 6247 2525 (7am-11pm) – counselling for those affected by sexual assault, with a dedicated counsellor on campus
1800 RESPECT (24/7) – sexual assault and domestic violence counselling and information
The Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467 (24/7) – free phone counselling for anyone affected by suicide
The Crisis Assessment and Treatment Team (CATT): 1800 629 354 (24/7) – assessment and treatment of mentally ill people in crisis situations
Know something we don’t know? Email [email protected] or use our anonymous tip submission.
If you have an issue with this article, or a correction to make, you can contact us at [email protected], submit a formal dispute, or angery react the Facebook post.
Want to get involved? You can write articles, photograph, livestream or do web support. We’re also looking for someone to yell “extra!” outside Davey Lodge at 1AM. Apply today!
