The 1-Tok Kaunselin Helpim Lain service received a visit from Sue Mackwell, New Zealand High Commissioner to Papua New Guinea, on Wednesday.
The 1-Tok Kaunselin Helpim Lain is a telephone counselling initiative implemented by ChildFund, with funding from the New Zealand Aid program.
Ms Mackwell, who has a social work background and was involved with setting up a children’s helpline in New Zealand, asked the counsellors questions about the kinds of calls they received. Counsellors told her about the important role they play in providing counselling, safety planning and connecting clients to a range of other services across the nation.
High Commissioner Mackwell said she was impressed with the counsellors’ professionalism and the dedication they clearly showed to support families affected by violence within the home.
“I hope to see many more people from across Papua New Guinea, men and women, picking up the phone and calling the hotline for advice and support,” said Ms Mackwell.
The 1-Tok Kaunselin Helpim Lain has been in operation for 2 years and has received over 6,000 calls, assisting clients from all around Papua New Guinea.
If you or someone you know needs to speak to a counsellor, call the free 1-Tok Kaunselin Helpim Lain – Toll free confidential phone counselling for anyone experiencing gender based violence in PNG – 7150 8000 – 7AM-7PM, 7 days.
(Ms Sue Mackwell, New Zealand High Commissioner to PNG, centre, and Development Counsellor Kathleen Pearce with staff from ChildFund, FSVAC, FHI360 and the PNG Counsellor’s Association)