Every year UK helplines handle over 29 million calls, some 2.6 million emails, and almost 1.8 million text and instant messages on a vast array of health, social welfare, public service or educational issues.

The Helplines Association (THA) is the umbrella organisation for non-profit helplines across the UK and Ireland, and works to ensure that every caller receives the best possible service when calling a helpline.

BT supports The Helplines Association as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility to grow its business in a way that benefits its customers and society using communications technology to help tackle social and environmental challenges.

The Awards include four categories: ‘New helpline of the year’, ‘Innovative use of technology to deliver a helpline service’, ‘Helpline Staff Member of the year’ and ‘Helpline Volunteer of the Year’.

Lawrence said: “Winning this award isn’t just about me but all the hard work and dedication of the people I work with. Our team has given more than I could have ever imagined and I know we’ve made a huge impact in the community we serve. To be acknowledged in this way and winning this award is fantastic. I’m truly delighted.”

Rekha Wadhwani, Chief Executive of The Helplines Association said; “The BT/THA Helpline Awards give us an opportunity to recognise and reward helplines which are committed to high quality standards. We are delighted that the helplines showcased in the awards this year embrace technology in innovative ways, and collaborate with each other to provide a better service to the public.”

Beth Courtier, BT’s Community Investment Programme Manager said; “BT has supported THA since 1996, supporting its aim of providing advice, consultancy and training to helpline services in both the voluntary and statutory sectors. And The Helplines Association Awards are a great opportunity to recognise those who give their time to providing vital public services. I am particularly delighted to see recognition for ChildLine this year with whom BT has a long and proud partnership.”

To find out more about how The Helplines Association works to achieve the highest quality response to all those seekinginformation, advice and help go towww.helplines.org.uk. For more information on BT’s Corporate Responsibility visitwww.bt.com/betterworld.