The Pilot Project

The need for a point of contact for men seeking information & support had been recognized for many years, before commitment arising from Men's Festivals led to the Incorporation of the Men's Phone-Line, and eventually to the commencement of a pilot Telephone Service on 1 August 1996. Men's Phone-Line was listed on the Commonwealth Government Health page of the Telephone Directory, as well as in its alphabetical section. Volunteers were inducted into several successful training days, and are now organized on a roster. The Telstra number 99799909 is programmed to redirect calls to the home of whoever is "on duty". Volunteers take on 24 hour shifts, but may at times use answering-machines (to allow rest breaks etc), then follow up inquiries when convenient. Volunteers aim to get to the heart of the caller's need (both the objective/rational & the subjective/emotional), while keeping the caller in control. Volunteers seek to offer at least three referral telephone numbers from our Services- Directory, so as to give callers a better chance to have their needs met. At the end of a "shift" the Volunteer diverts the line to the next Volunteer on duty.

Where to find out about men's services & issues?