Warmline is a telephone peer support service for people experiencing mental illness in Canterbury and the West Coast, operated by people who have had personal experience of mental illness. It is not a crisis line, but a "non-crisis listening service".

Warmline is funded by the Canterbury and West Coast District Health Boards.

Click Here for an evaluation of Warmline's service

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How Can Warmline Help?

• Provide a listening ear
• Help the caller to clarify the situation and/or their responses/feelings
• Validate feelings and experiences
• Assist the caller to identify effective coping strategies
• Provide hope that recovery is possible
• Provide information about other services where appropriate.

Hours of Operation

The Warmline operates 7 days a week from 1pm—midnight.

During these hours people do not have the same access to mental health services as they do during the day. For many people experiencing mental illness these times can also be the most isolating and anxiety producing periods.

Operators

Warmline Operators are Volunteer Peer Supporters who have had personal experience of mental illness. They are well trained, mentored and supported.

Warmline calls are diverted to the On-Call Operator, who takes the call on a cell phone in their own home.