Free Lifeline Hunter Morning Teas running in Cessnock March-April
Published on 28 February 2023
Cessnock City Council and Lifeline Hunter are collaborating to hold a series of free morning or afternoon teas throughout Cessnock, Greta and the Wollombi Valley to share the important messages about the many free local services that Lifeline Hunter offers our residents.
The next free afternoon tea is being held on Thursday 2 March at 1:30pm at East Cessnock Bowling Club. This 1 hr session is open to anyone who would like to have an afternoon of conversation about mental wellbeing and learn about the free local services that are available immediately for any person in need.
Cessnock Mayor, Jay Suvaal recognised the importance of opening the conversation about mental wellbeing and to understand how much support is available immediately.
“Many people don’t realise that anyone living in our LGA can access free face to face or video/telephone counselling sessions with Lifeline Hunter with only a 24/48hr wait and importantly without any referral from your GP” Suvaal said.
Mayor Suvaal emphasized that this eliminated the 3 greatest barriers to people seeking help for mental health issues: cost, waiting time and distance.
“I would like to encourage all residents to attend one of these Lifeline sessions or at least look up the Lifeline Hunter website, so you know how to access these free services for yourself or for a friend, colleague or family member in need”
Residents living in the Cessnock LGA have been impacted by disaster after disaster over the preceding 3-4 years, from drought, bushfires, floods and COVID. The current economic climate also increases the strain on individuals and families. Lifeline is more than just a crisis hotline and can provide immediate & regular support for anyone, including those supporting others through a difficult time.
Three free morning tea sessions have already been held throughout the Wollombi Valley, with 3 more sessions to be held throughout Cessnock & Greta in March and April.
The following free Lifeline Information sessions are to be held:
Thurs 2 March at East Cessnock Bowling Club from 1:30pm
Thurs 13 April at Cessnock Library from 10:30am
Thurs 27th April at Greta Workers Club from 10:30am
To RSVP or receive more information about these free morning/afternoon teas, please contact Councils Community Recovery Officer, Melissa Boucher on phone: 4993-4257 or email Melissa.boucher@cessnock.nsw.gov.au
National Crisis Line – 13 11 14
Crisis Text Line – 0477 13 11 14
Crisis Chat – Lifeline.org.au/crisischat
Counselling – No cost. Face to face, phone or video. Call 1300 152 854 to book.