The British Lung Foundation (BLF) Helpline is ringing with success after receiving a fantastic response since it opened in 2006.
The 08458 50 50 20 number has responded to 17,000 calls since its launch, providing help and support across the UK to people affected by lung disease.
The helpline is staffed by a team of specially trained staff, including respiratory nurses (adult and paediatric), specialist doctors, welfare benefits advisors and counsellors.
Although majority of calls come from people who are living with a lung condition and specifically want information on their condition, the helpline also takes calls from partners, family members, friends or employers as well as healthcare professionals. Typically, 60 calls a day are received about respiratory-related problems.
In 2009, the BLF helpline was awarded the Helpline Association Accreditation, by The Helpline Association (THA), for its consistent delivery of a first class service. The award was established to ensure charities met the relevant standards with their telephone helplines.
Tracey Newton, Helpline Specialist Advisor, said: “The team is very pleased to have been awarded the accreditation. Talking to the people who call us makes my job enjoyable and fulfilling."
One comment from a service user explains how much they value the service.
"The support I have received has been nothing short of marvelous and has helped me tremendously."
Advice Service Manager, Mark Pilling, explains: “Providing advice over the telephone makes the service accessible to virtually everyone. And it is convenient for people who are confined to their home, either because of their condition or their caring responsibilities.
“There are also many other issues that we can advise on. We have an extensive library of reference material to help us, including the CAB service information system.”
The BLF Helpline is open from 10am to 6pm Monday to Friday. Calls cost the local rate and any calls made outside these hours will be picked up by an answering machine. The helpline also provides a call back service via the BLF website.
For Healthcare professionals, a card with the helpline contact number is available to pass on to the people they care for. The cards can be ordered, free of charge, through the BLF website, or by contacting Mark Pilling, Advice Service Manager, on 0151 224 7776.
Published on 12 February 2010
