Samaritans answer 48,000 calls for help

Some 116 Samaritans volunteers from Exeter, Mid and East Devon branch have answered 47,588 calls, emails and texts for help in the last 12 months.

The figures are being issued to coincide with Volunteers Week from June 1 to June 7, organised to highlight the work of the charity’s volunteers.

Like all Samaritans volunteers across the country these are ordinary people who dedicate time each week to provide a safe space for anyone struggling to cope.

One local volunteer is Sally who, like many, came to Samaritans after a personal experience.

“My daughter had bulimia at university and I was contacted by another mother with a similar family experience. It made me appreciate how valuable it was to be able to talk about my concerns with someone who would listen” explains Sally.

“Then I saw there was an opportunity to be a volunteer at Samaritans. I’ve found it immensely fulfilling to help callers by listening to them. After more than 25 years volunteering with Samaritans I am still surprised by the loneliness of many people, even those in relationships. It’s a good feeling to be able to help” she says.

Volunteers at the Exeter, Mid and East Devon are also involved in outreach work in schools, colleges and the university, as well as providing support to festival goers at events such as Glastonbury.

The local volunteers also run a listening scheme with HM Prison Exeter where they select, train and support prisoners to offer support to other inmates.

“It’s great to see how our volunteers support people in ways that work for callers on the phone, via email, text or visiting us at our branch in central Exeter” says Helen Crossfield, director of Exeter, Mid and East Devon Samaritans.

Helen says the next open evening for anyone interested in volunteering is on Wednesday July 15 at 7.30pm in the Samaritans’ office at 10 Richmond Road, Exeter EX4 4JA.

“Samaritans wouldn’t exist without volunteers. As well as listening on the helpline, people can get involved with fundraising, marketing, admin, IT, or offering other skills. We’re always looking for new volunteers, so get in touch” says Helen.

Potential volunteers can also find out more by calling 01392 496649 or emailing volunteerrecruitment@exetersamaritans.org for more information.

Samaritans is available round the clock, every single day of the year. We provide a safe place for anyone struggling to cope, whoever they are, however they feel, whatever life has done to them.