Documentary special Always Listening on SBS takes us behind the scenes of one of the oldest organisations dedicated to saving lives in Australia, Lifeline.
Director and Producer Genevieve Bailey said, “I’ve wondered if listening is rapidly becoming a lost art. There are studies that show we’ve never been more lonely. Whilst film and TV usually spotlight the talkers, I wanted to turn my camera on the listeners, those people who dedicate their lives to supporting Australians who reach out to Lifeline. Before I started to make this documentary, I had no idea what these people looked like, now I can say they look like any and all of us. But what makes them exceptional and inspired me to make Always Listening is their capacity and commitment to positively impact so many lives.”
Lifeline Australia CEO Colin Seery said, “Always Listening is an intimate documentary that shines a light on the evolution of Lifeline from its humble beginnings in 1963 right up to present day. It serves as a tribute to all the incredible people who generously give their time, skills, and expertise to ensure no Australian has to face their toughest moments alone.”
We all know the devastating statistics around suicide. Lifeline provides free and anonymous support to those in need. But who are the people at the other end of these cries for help? Every hour of the day, every day of the year, someone is there for each of the calls made to this vital service.
Award-winning filmmaker Genevieve Bailey (I Am Eleven, Happy Sad Man) has once again produced a candid and uplifting take on a complex reality. Bailey was given rare access to Lifeline’s network of volunteers and staff. Her intimate 30-minute documentary is a portrait of compassion, giving a voice to just a few of those who have answered some of the 23 million calls for help as well as hearing stories from those who have used the service over Lifeline’s 60 years.
These powerful stories combine to shine a light not only on personal experiences but also to provide insight into how life-affecting and life-changing Lifeline has been.
For over 60 years, Lifeline has been connecting with Australians in need through crisis support and suicide prevention services, operating the 13 11 14 telephone line around the nation as well as a 24/7 crisis text, webchat service and Support Toolkit. The organisation expects to respond to over one million requests for support this year, creating an average of 120 safety plans to keep a person experiencing suicidal ideation safe every day. Lifeline also provides face-to-face community services through many of their 43 Centres across Australia.
Lifeline 13 11 14
2pm Monday October 28 on SBS.
links to content on ABC
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