By students for students: introducing Newcastle Nightline

Nightline is an anonymous and confidential listening service for students, which originated in 1970 at Essex University. Since then, it has spread to many other universities across the United Kingdom, including our own, Newcastle University. I had the privilege of speaking to one of Newcastle’s nightline reps, Frankie, to get an insight into the amazing service. 

Shall we start with a brief overview of what Nightline actually is?  

"Nightline is a listening service run by students, for students, and it’s completely anonymous and non-judgemental. We’re just a listening ear if you’ve got something on your mind, you can get in touch with us, call us or message whatever works for you. We’re just here to listen."

Can you share a brief history of your time at Nightline? How did the initiative come to be? What are it’s aims?  

"There’s been a lot of nightlines across the UK. The general aim is just to support students basically. I’ve been in Nightline for about four years... It’s been running in Newcastle for around 50 years, and it’s always been about supporting students and being a part of something fun and a way to support others."

How can students access Nightline?  

"There are two ways that you can get in touch. You can call us- the number will be on the back of your student card. You can find us online as well and access us through there, or you can use IM (instant messages) through the NUSU website, our Instagram, or any of our flyers, so you can find us pretty easily as long as you’re a student."

For someone wanting to get in touch, what kind of support might they be able to expect?  

"Our five values: we’re anonymous, we’re non-judgemental, non-advisory, confidential, and we’re non-directive. So, if you're looking for someone to talk to, help to get something off your chest, that’s what we’re here for. We’re not therapists. We won’t tell you how to fix things, but if you’ve got something on your mind, talk to us. We’re honestly happy to talk about anything."

How can people get involved or support Nightline? Are there any volunteering opportunities available?  

"There are lots of ways you can help us. We have listening volunteers answering the calls, and applications will come back around next semester, so keep an eye on our Instagram for that. We have ‘friends of Nightline’, which is publicity-related or if you’d just like to support without getting involved in that side of things, come along to our events, follow us on Instagram, just come and chat to us. "