What to expect
Here's exactly what happens when you reach out
Calling a helpline for the first time can feel frightening. We'd like you to know what's coming, so there are no surprises.
- 1
You dial
That's the hardest part, and you've already done it. You don't need to plan what to say.
- 2
A gentle welcome, then a real person
A short welcome message plays first. If there's a brief wait, you can choose gentle hold music or a calm, guided breathing exercise. Calls are answered in around 20 seconds by a trained volunteer. You don't have to give your name, where you live, or anything about yourself.
- 3
You don't need to rush to find the words
If the words won't come, that's okay. Our volunteers will stay on the line.
- 4
You lead the conversation
Share as much or as little as you like. We listen without judgement, and we won't tell you what to do.
- 5
You end it when you're ready
You can end the call whenever you wish, no explanation needed. You can call again any time, day and night, every day of the week.
Worries people often have
“I don't know what to say.”
Then say that. Our volunteers will gently help you begin, one step at a time.
“I might cry, or freeze.”
That's completely okay. Many people who call can't talk at first, or stay silent. Our volunteers stay on the line anyway.
“My problem isn't serious enough.”
You don't need a crisis to call. If it matters to you, it matters to us.
“What if someone finds out?”
We can't see or track your number, you never need to give your name, and what you share is treated confidentially.
“I'm not religious / I'm very religious.”
We're here for every Jewish person, whatever their background or observance, with respect and no judgement.
More questions? Read what others ask before calling
Ways to reach us
Talk on the phone
For when you want to hear a real voice. Call any time, day and night, every day of the week. If every volunteer is busy, please try again in a few minutes.
If things feel desperate
If you're in crisis, we'll stay with you and help you think through safe next steps, at your pace.
We can't see or track your number No name needed Confidential support
If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call 999 in the UK or Gibraltar, 911 in the USA, or 112 in Belgium.
If you're having thoughts of ending your life, you can also call The HelpLine. We're here to listen.