Support Act adds LGBTQI+, Sexual Health & Safety support lines
Music industry charity Support Act has today launched two new options to its Wellbeing Helpline covering Sexual Health & Safety and the LGBTQI+ community.
The two new lines come in response to the rising demand for mental health services and the need to offer support to those experiencing discrimination in the industry.
Support Act said sexual harassment, rape and other forms of assault disproportionately affect female, LGBTQI+ and gender diverse members of the music community.
Clive Miller, CEO of Support Act, said last year the charity saw the voices of its industry speak out loud and clear against the discrimination, sexual harassment and assault that have plagued the music community for far too long.
“As a result, we saw a need to boost our Wellbeing Helpline to ensure support is provided to anyone who needs someone to talk to or a referral to receive specialist support,” he said.
The Support Act Wellbeing Helpline is a free, confidential phone counselling service available to anyone who works in music or the arts who is concerned about their mental health or wellbeing. It is accessible 24/7 by calling 1800 959 500.
The Sexual Health and Safety Support Line (Option 5) will provide counselling support in relation to sexual harassment and any form of sexual abuse.
It said a counsellor will work with each caller to find the best and most appropriate resources and plan to support them and their situation including referrals to external services such as medical support, legal support and/or the police.
Counselling appointments for this service can be made between 8am–6pm on weekdays.
The LGBTQI+ Support Line (Option 2) is staffed by counsellors and professionals who have completed ACON Pride Inclusion training for LGBTIQ+ and gender diverse people.
Other options on the Helpline include a First Nations Support Line (Option 3) and a Manager Support Hotline (Option 4).
For further information on the Wellbeing Helpline, visit the website or call 1800 959 500.