Callers Rules, Responsibilities and Rights
Caller Rules and Responsibilities
To ensure the hotline remains a safe and supportive space, callers are expected to:
- Treat hotline operators and supervisors with respect and avoid inappropriate or abusive language. Sexually inappropriate conduct directed towards operators will not be tolerated.
- If using alone, provide accurate location information to ensure operators can get you assistance in a timely manner. We are unable to trace your call and rely on the information you provide.
- If we believe you are in imminent danger, you give the operator explicit permission to activate your safety plan.
- Calls are limited to 30 minutes to ensure availability of operators for all potential callers needing spotting services. Please help us to respect those limits for the safety of our entire community.
- Understand that staff follow protocols and cannot provide medical or mental health treatment or advice and are not trained in crisis intervention. In these situations, we ask that you call 911 or your local crisis line (988 if unsure).
- Violations of any of these rules may result in progressive call restrictions (up to and including a permanent ban) to protect the integrity of the hotline and the safety of our team
Caller Bill of Rights
As a caller to the SafeSpot Overdose Prevention Hotline, you have the following rights:
- You have the right to be treated with respect, empathy, and understanding. Your experiences and perspectives are valued. You have the right to feel empowered as you navigate your journey toward health, safety, and well-being.
- Your privacy is protected. You may remain anonymous, and information you share will be kept confidential to the fullest extent allowed by law.
- You have the right to fair, equitable, and inclusive support, regardless of identity, background, or circumstances.
- If we believe you are experiencing an overdose, we will act immediately to activate your safety plan.
- If requested, you will receive accurate information about trusted and vetted resources to help you make informed decisions about your health and safety.
- Your engagement with our services is entirely voluntary. You may end interactions at any time without pressure.
- Your input is valued. You may provide feedback or file complaints to help us improve our services by calling the hotline and pressing 5 to leave a voicemail for the director, or by emailing the general inbox at info@massoverdosehelpline.org.