Samaritans - just a bunch of do-gooders?

In the past, Samaritans did not talk openly about their volunteer work; in part, this was to retain a sense of anonymity. 

In recent years however, although many do prefer not discuss their involvement, Samaritans are free to talk about what they do and the important role it plays, particularly when it comes to mental health.

Ii is disturbing to read that Taunton Deane has one of the highest rates of suicide in the country. 

Statistics from the Office for National Statistics show that between 2014 and 2016 a total of 42 people in the area took their own lives; 15 suicides for every 100,000 people living in Taunton Deane, compared with the national average of 10 for every 100,000 people.

As the branch marketing and PR person for Taunton & Somerset Samaritans, I am aware that Samaritans as an organisation needs to ensure that people know who we are, what we do, where we are and why we do what we do.

I have been a Samaritan for almost 9 years, one of a local team of almost 100 who give their time to support those in need. It would be very difficult to pigeon-hole any of us, such is the diversity of my fellow volunteers. Some are as old as the hills, having been involved for decades; others are fresh faced youngsters just embarking on adulthood. It would be trite to say that we all ‘want to give something back’ and label us as a bunch of do-gooders. I decided to join my local branch because, having found out more about what Samaritans does, it seemed a no-brainer. Why, having had two members of my family commit suicide, would I not want to help prevent others having to go through the same thing? 

I am involved in a number of voluntary organisations and know that as our lives become increasingly busy all of them struggle to recruit.

To get the word out, I meet up regularly with others from across the South West to exchange ideas, looking at ways that we can continue to reach out, if only to dispel the myth that Samaritans is just for those who are suicidal. This is not the case at all.

Samaritans is there to offer a confidential listening ear to anyone who needs someone to talk to about whatever it is that is troubling them; to explore their feelings without being judged. This could be about health, work, family, personal relationships, school or college, money matters, addiction. The list in endless.

The burden of volunteering is not too onerous, just four shifts a month, the training is top notch and the people I work with are great.  Whether I am on duty, giving a talk, or running a quiz to raise much needed funds, my involvement with Samaritans is the most satisfying thing that I do. 

Whilst Samaritans may not be for everyone, we are indeed in your corner when the chips are down.

Call Samaritans on the free phone number – 116 123

Email - jo@samaritans.org

Visit us - 16 Wood Street,Taunton, Somerset TA1 1UN (9am – 9pm)