Listening service

I’ve been to counseling but I’ve never been able to talk as much as I have to you. It helped so much.

Anonymous caller, University of Essex

Nightline gives students time and space to talk through whatever is on their mind. If you just want a chat, if there's no-one else you can or want to turn to or if it's the middle of the night and you need someone now - Nightline volunteers will listen for as long as you want to talk.  We don't have the answers but we care about what you're going through.  We listen because giving you undivided empathetic attention and the opportunity to explore your feelings in a safe, objective and caring environment alleviates distress and feelings of despair, provides perspective and gives you the space to identify the options open to you – so you can come to your own solution or resolution. If you'd like more info about how talking can help, check out the document attached to the end of this page.

If something’s really bothering me – Nightline is a savior! There’s so much to deal with at university, even if you do have friends and family that will listen, there are some things you don’t feel you can talk to them about. It’s reassuring and comforting that the students at my uni understand that and care.

Anonymous caller

Different nightlines offer different services, but here's a brief intro on the most common:

Call us

All Nightlines operate a telephone helpline, usually available all night every night 8pm-8am during term time, though some smaller Nightlines operate a restricted service.
 

Email us

Can't speak? Find your voice online. Some Nightlines offer a completely anonymously and confidential email service. If you find it easier to write than to talk then send an email.

1-1 message us

If you find it easier to write than to talk and want an immediate response start a 1-1 message conversation. The service works through a secure 1-1 web based messenger, similar to MSN or Google talk, which allows you to ‘talk’  anonymously and confidential to a Nightline volunteer in real time. Six Nightlines offer 1-1 online listening.
 

I found it really easy to talk to someone online. I’m quite nervous discussing things in person and I wouldn’t have otherwise talked to a Nightline volunteer. The online listening service meant that I could get the support I felt I needed without feeling embarrassed.

Anonymous caller, University of East Anglia

Visit us

If you feel more comfortable talking to someone face to face come and see us. Some Nightlines offer a drop in service, where you can visit and talk to a Nightline volunteer in the safety of the Nightline office.