When most people will be celebrating the joyous family festivities associated with Christmas, Osborne Park priest Fr Michael Gatt and his team of dedicated volunteers will be offering a listening ear to those whose sense of loneliness and isolation is magnified at this time of year.
The Gatt Helpline or “Gattline”, as it has become known over the past 22 years, operates 24 hours a day for the two weeks over Christmas, fielding up to 100 calls, some from as far away as Canada and New Zealand.
More than two decades ago Fr Gatt recognised the vulnerability of people without family or peer support during this period. “Christmas is a difficult time for many,” he said.
“I felt there was a need for the helpline and so I started it and it went very well.”
Fr Gatt said loneliness, substance abuse, suicidal feelings and family breakdown are common issues callers share at a time when many support services are closed.
His team offers a confidential and compassionate ear and provides referrals when necessary.
Each year, the Helpline receives new callers, but there are also regulars seeking friendship and support.
Fr Gatt says he has calmed the nerves of at least three prison escapees, provided emergency funds to families and others facing extreme financial hardship and believes the Helpline has made a difference to the hundreds who have utilised the service.
“This is a festive season if you have a good home and you are happy and safe,” he said. “But for many people this is not the case”.
The Gatt Helpline will operate 24/7 between dates yet to be advised. For more, phone (08) 9444 1334 or (08) 9444 8650.