Community TAB Shines a Light for Life this Festive Season
Community TAB of Racing and Wagering Western Australia (RWWA) is proud to support Lifeline WA’s annual Christmas Campaign “Lights for Lifeline” campaign, aiming to raise awareness around suicide prevention.
The campaign shines a light on suicide prevention during the festive season, the time when demand for Lifelines service is at its highest.
Community TAB became Foundation Partner of the campaign at its inception, and this year’s donation will fund the training of a Telephone Crisis Support volunteer who will give their time, energy and expertise to ensure that no person has to face their darkest moments alone.
RWWA Chief Executive Officer Ian Edwards said the service Lifeline WA provides to Western Australians in need is crucial.
“This time of year can be difficult for many, even more so this year after facing so many unprecedented challenges throughout 2020,” Mr Edwards said.
“Mental health is one of the most pressing issues facing our community and we believe this ongoing partnership is a way of making a positive difference.”
“RWWA, through Community TAB, stands alongside Lifeline WA in their endeavour to be able to assist all Western Australians who seek help in their time of need through the Lifeline WA crisis line.”
The support comes at a time when people have been turning to Lifeline in record numbers. Lifeline WA Chief Executive Officer Lorna MacGregor said someone will call Lifeline WA lonely or in crisis every 30 seconds this Christmas.
“The festive season is the busiest time of the year for Lifeline WA, it is the time of the year where levels of anxiety, depression and suicide increase,” Ms MacGregor said.
“In a year marked by challenges, Lifeline WA answered a record number of calls from the community needing support for a range of life challenges and experiencing anxiety, feeling lonely or isolated, and tragically, some were contemplating taking their own life.”
“The Lights for Lifeline campaign also aims to be a beacon of hope, while spreading a little cheer throughout the community.”
More information on Lights for Lifeline here.