Peer-to-peer exchanges play a vital role in INHOPE’s mission by enabling knowledge-sharing and fostering collaboration between hotlines. We spoke to Meadhbh Mccomish from the Irish hotline, Hotline.ie, to hear about her experience with her peer-to-peer exchange in July 2024, when she visited the Portuguese hotline, APAV. This exchange was supported by the Stronger Together project, funded by the EU through the Citizens, Equality, Rights, and Values Programme.

Can you give us a brief overview of your day at APAV?

The agenda was really broad. We covered everything from the technology and processes at both hotlines, to raising awareness and the challenges of securing funding. We also discussed the legislative framework APAV operates within and talked about some of the key issues they face.

What were three highlights of the exchange for you?

*One of the biggest highlights was learning about the helpline side of APAV’s operation, since we only run as a hotline in Ireland. Another highlight was connecting with the people at APAV. It’s so nice to make connections with people working in different hotlines around the world. Lastly, seeing the different campaigns that APAV has developed was truly inspiring. It made me think about new ways we can raise awareness in Ireland.

What were your main takeaways from the exchange?

The main takeaway would be the work of the wider APAV network, I found the work they do very admirable, and they really do a lot to help people. Secondly, I was struck by the fact that they have volunteers, which I thought showed how strong their organisation is.

Was there anything new that you learned and plan to implement at Hotline.ie?

I improved my knowledge of campaigning, and it gave me a few ideas on what we could do at our hotline.

Any suggestions for improving future peer-to-peer exchanges?

I think there is little to be improved, it is a very good programme.


Peer-to-peer exchanges are an invaluable part of INHOPE’s training and capacity-building initiatives. These exchanges not only strengthen the relationships between members but also facilitate the sharing of expertise and ideas across the network, helping to improve the overall effectiveness of hotlines around the world. Your support makes this possible! Funding enables us to offer essential services that keep our network running at full capacity. Interested in getting involved? Explore our partnership opportunities or reach out to samantha.woolfe@inhope.org to discuss other ways we can work together.