Youthline - bringing hope for 40 years

BY RHIANNON HORRELL

Youthline's 40th anniversary celebrations were kicked off in such good spirits last week that presenters almost forgot to unveil the commemorative plaque.

The organisation, which marked the milestone at its Ponsonby branch, has helped thousands of young Kiwis over the years by providing encouragement and support.

The youth charity provides counselling services, youth work programmes and life transition guidance.

Youthline volunteer Sarah Doddrell, 24, started training last February to become involved and has progressed considerably since.

She answers up to five calls each shift and answers text messages from those who may need to hear some friendly words.

"It's different to phone counselling. Maybe they feel more comfortable texting than calling.

"I went through some
hard times in my teenage years and now I want to offer support and encouragement.

"I've grown heaps personally. I wanted to be part of something that is making a difference."

Miss Doddrell fits the Youthline work around a fulltime job at Suicide Prevention Information New Zealand and says the two roles are complementary.

Fellow volunteer Missy Purnomo, 21, has worked her way up to become a mentor after starting at Youthline five years ago.

"I like working with trainees and making sure they are having fun but also learning," she says.

Last year Youthline received more than 100,000 calls and 200,000 text messages and its website was visited more than 100,000 times.

Chief executive Stephen Bell says eight generations of young people have
been at the forefront of Youthline since it started in 1970.

"At the centre of all we do are young people."

He says volunteers witness immense courage through counselling people who are dealing with horrendous situations.

"Old paradigms are changing, we are learning to be a more emotionally literate society."

Mr Bell says quality relationships make a difference in people’s lives and building connectivity is vital.

Prime Minister John Key attended the celebrations and spoke about his recent visit to the children’s ward at Wellington Hospital with Prince William.

Mr Key met teenagers who are coping with serious issues like suicide and anorexia.

"The heart of what Youthline is ultimately about is providing support and encouragement to young people. Young people are complex little beasts."

He says the organisation may be the last port of call for those who need support, guidance and help.

"New Zealand is a country that has a lot of different things to contend with. But in the end it will always be about that next generation of young people."

- © Fairfax NZ News