Next steps in Lifeline development

The Public Health Agency (PHA) would like to thank all those who took the time and effort to respond to the 12 week public consultation on proposals for the future of the Lifeline service, and has set out the next steps in its review of the current service model.

Lifeline is Northern Ireland’s crisis response helpline service for people who are experiencing distress or despair.

Brendan Bonner, the PHA lead on the Lifeline service, said: “The Lifeline crisis response service is highly valued by the PHA and is a key priority, as it provides essential support to people at a time when they are at their most vulnerable.

“It is therefore essential that we periodically review how the service works to help ensure that it provides the best support for people in need.

“The PHA has just held a 12 week public consultation on the future shape of the Lifeline service. Feedback from the consultation will contribute to ensuring that Lifeline meets the needs of those who may require the service over the coming years.

“I would like to thank everyone who took the time to attend the various workshops and engage with the agency on the plans, and those who responded in writing to the consultation, which closed on 19 November.

“We will now examine the consultation responses and use the information and feedback to further inform our plans for the future of Lifeline.”

During the consultation process, the PHA organised nine public workshops, and took part in a further 17 workshops organised by third party organisations. Over 300 participants attended these events, at which members of the public, service users and staff employed by Contact (the current contractor) were in attendance and participated in discussion. In addition, a number of tailored briefings were provided to a range of organisations.

The agency also received 159 written responses to the consultation.

The PHA will now study the responses and a consultation report will be published in late January 2016, and made available on the PHA’s website. Copies will also be sent to all consultation respondents where contact details are available. The responses will be taken into consideration in the preparation of the full business case, with a new tender to be finalised by April 2016.

“Throughout this period of review, it is important to remember that Lifeline continues to be available 24/7 to provide support to anyone who is in distress or despair. This will continue to be the case when the future service model is implemented, so rest assured that Lifeline is here to help when you need it,” added Brendan.

If you or someone you know is in distress or despair, call Lifeline on 0808 808 8000. This is a confidential service which is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You can also access the Lifeline website at www.lifelinehelpline.info