Funding of Telephone Counseling Institutions

The initiative "Support for Institutions of Telephone Counseling" in Vorarlberg is aimed at non-profit organizations and public institutions that offer affected individuals in crisis situations an anonymous and low-threshold conversation service. In the field of Social Affairs and Work & Social Affairs, the program enables a first point of contact available around the clock, which, in addition to telephone counseling, also includes online contacts and correspondence. This provides emotional relief, information on further support services, and an active contribution to suicide prevention. Since January 1, 2013, applications can be submitted indefinitely, ensuring a continuous expansion of the support network throughout the state of Vorarlberg.

The funding is provided as a direct grant and supports the long-term safeguarding of professional telephone counseling services. It covers all regions of the state and ensures an even availability of such services in Vorarlberg. Applicants must demonstrate professional qualifications for telephone counseling and submit a comprehensive business concept as well as financial statements and accounting. The documentation is supplemented by an activity report and a legally binding service agreement with the funding provider. These requirements guarantee that funded institutions offer professionally competent and reliable support structures. Applications can be submitted continuously to the Department of Society, Social Affairs and Integration of the Office of the Vorarlberg State Government. The program thematically focuses on the areas of Social Affairs and Work & Social Affairs to ensure comprehensive psychosocial stability and improved life prospects for people in need and at risk of suicide.