What is Durham Nightline?
Durham Nightline is a student-run active listening service for students at Durham University. We’re open during the night, when other support services may be closed. Our student volunteers offer a non-judgemental space to talk anonymously about anything that’s on your mind, either on the phone or via instant messaging.
Following the opening of the first Nightline in 1970, three Durham University students who volunteered at the local Samaritans branch took the initiative to set up Durham Nightline in 1973. They felt that some students may feel reluctant to approach people outside of the university community and would find it easier and more relatable to speak to another student. Our volunteers have been here through the night ever since.
What to expect
If you need someone to talk to, we’re here to listen. We won’t judge or tell you what to do. Whatever you’re going through you can always talk freely and openly to our listening volunteers. From undergraduates to PhDs, all our listening volunteers are students like any other.
All of our volunteers are trained in active listening to ensure you have a safe space to talk about anything at all, whether something is troubling you, big or small, or you just want a chat on your way home at night.
Our principles
Confidential
What you discuss with our volunteers will not be shared outside of Nightline. This allows you to put your trust in our listening volunteers.
Anonymous
You don’t have to give any information about yourself and we’ll never ask you to share any identifying information. This creates a safe space to speak as freely as possible.
Non-judgemental
There is no bad reason to call us. Our volunteers won’t judge, and will support you through whatever it is you’re going through.
Non-advisory
Our volunteers give you the space to talk through your situation and empower you to make your own decisions, rather than telling you what to do.
Non-aligned
We are an independent organisation with no political or religious affiliations. We respect everyone’s right to their own beliefs and opinions.