50
YEARS ON -
THE SAMARITANS
In 1953, a priest
called Chad Varah realised that people waiting to see him were helped
enormously by talking to each other about their problems – and so, the
Samaritans telephone helpline was born.
The local branch is in
Grecian Street and is manned by volunteers from all walks of life and from
a wide age range. The volunteers commit a few hours each week to answer
calls and reach out to people who may need their help. All are willing
listeners, non-judgemental and interested in providing help. Volunteers
receive training and continuous support.
Callers can be
suffering bereavement, a relationship break-up, difficulties at work or in
education, financial or personal worries.
The Samaritans rely
entirely on charitable donations and all money donated locally goes to
local work.
You might want to
become a volunteer – or book a speaker for a group meeting. You might
like to book our mobile unit for a public event or make a one-off or
regular donation.
Or you might need
someone to talk to yourself.
Friends or relatives
may not always be able to offer the time or patience to keep listening and
sometimes, there is no-one at all to talk to.
The Samaritans are
there 24/7 – 365 days a year.
They befriend and
support callers with total confidentiality. Callers retain their anonymity
and are accepted without prejudice or judgement.
You can contact them to
find out more by telephoning 08457 90 90 90 (local call rate), in person
at 48 Grecian Street (telephone 674444) or e-mail jo@samaritans.org
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