Samaritans appeal for more volunteers

If you have ever considered volunteering as a Samaritan, then clear your diary for the evening of Thursday, September 3.

That is the date of the next Open Evening being held by the Exeter Mid and East Devon branch of the charity, which relies entirely on volunteers to provide its telephone, email, SMS, letter and face-to-face listening service for those in distress.

The local branch currently has over 110 volunteers who help operate the service 24 hours a day, seven days a week, but there is always a need for more.

“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 Crossfield, director of the local branch.

Volunteers at the Exeter, Mid and East Devon branch are also involved in outreach work in schools, colleges and at Exeter university. They 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.

The Open Evening begins at 7.30pm on Thursday September 3 in the Samaritans’ office at 10 Richmond Road, Exeter EX4 4JA.

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.