Helplines Awareness Day is a national campaign that shines a spotlight on the incredible work of helplines across the UK.
Each year on 23 February, we celebrate the dedicated employees and volunteers who make a difference every day, and ensure their vital work is recognised, valued, and heard.
Helplines Awareness Day 2026
We’re excited to announce a new photography project and exhibition: Developing in the Dark — illuminating stories of support, created to raise awareness of the vital role helplines play in offering understanding, advice and connection when it’s needed most.
As part of our campaign for Helplines Awareness Day 2026, taking place on 23 February 2026, we are partnering with Rachel Brewster-Wright from Little Vintage Photography to present a powerful portrait project.
The exhibition will feature portraits of people whose lives have been transformed through the support of helplines. Each image will be accompanied by a short reflection, sharing how reaching out for help made a difference.
Get Involved
We’d love you to be part of this inspiring project.
We’re looking for volunteers who have used helplines and would like to share their story — either in person or anonymously.
You can choose how to be represented: through a traditional portrait, or creatively through images such as hands, silhouettes, or other expressive forms.
Your story will be treated with care, and shared safely and respectfully.
Travel expenses will be covered.
Portrait sessions are planned for December 2025 and January 2026, with dates arranged to suit the majority of participants.
If you’d like to take part or find out more, we’d love to hear from you.