March 24, 2026
Volunteering at London Nightline has always been something I am very grateful to be a part of. Knowing that we provide a safe space for students to share what they are going through is something I find deeply meaningful and important. Beyond the shifts themselves, I have also been lucky to get involved with so many experiences as part of our community. Whether it’s social events, training days, or even a conversation with a fellow volunteer on shift, I really value being in such a supportive and welcoming environment.
Recently I was even invited to attend a meeting of the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for Suicide and Self-Harm Prevention. The meeting fell on the exact halfway point of the Suicide Prevention Strategy for England.
This was actually my first visit to Parliament, and I really enjoyed getting to explore such a beautiful building to attend this discussion.
It was also a valuable experience to hear directly from those shaping policy and having the chance to be part of the conversations that impact people’s lives. It was interesting to hear what had been achieved so far and to understand the approach taken.
Alongside this, othe rmental health organisations were able to provide input and share insights. It was a great opportunity to bring like-minded people together and offer a platform to share their perspectives. There was an unfortunate consensus that there is a lack of funding available for voluntary organisations who provide mental health support, and at times they are overrun by the demand put on their services. Although this is a challenging reality, it was clear that their presence has had a positive impact on the people they support.
Hearing these views really made me reflect on how essential organisations such as London Nightline are. I feel uplifted knowing there are volunteers dedicating their time to offer a listening ear to students seeking support, and I am thankful to be a part of it.
By Moiyah Jackson
