Kidsline Buddies are specially selected and trained Year 12 and 13 students, keen to make a positive contribution to their community by volunteering their time as a listening ear to troubled children who ring Kidsline.

Why we have Buddies?

Children can sometimes view adults as out of touch and authoritarian. Kidsline Buddies, on the other hand, are just a bit older than the children who ring, they speak the same language and still remember what its like to be a kid. We believe this helps establish quick and effective empathy between Buddy and caller. Kidsline Buddies are more like older brothers or sisters who are trained to listen, support and encourage children to make independant choices.

Kidsline Buddies benefit too, they receive training in self-awareness, communication skills, basic psychological theories and principles, appropriate therapeutic techniques and adaptive life skills. With training in these areas, Buddies increase their competence and grow in their abilities to address their own issues and make positive changes in themselves. Kidsline Buddies become resources for their families, friends, schools and communities.