Samaritans’ Volunteer Week: June 1 to 7

Volunteers in Northern Ireland responded to nearly 150,000 calls for help last year, and those who would like to find out more about volunteering for Samaritans can do so by calling 08705627282 or emailing

[email protected] for more information.

Statistics show that 757 volunteers responded to 145,226 requests for support from people struggling to cope.

Samaritans’ Executive Director for Ireland, Catherine Brogan, says its volunteers make an invaluable contribution to the lives of people in their communities.

“Statistics show a continuing need for our services. Research shows that for almost everyone, it’s the human interaction that’s important; getting a response from a real person. Almost three out of four people tell us that they feel more understood, and less alone or anxious, after contacting us.”

Samaritans wouldn’t exist without the dedication and generosity of our volunteers. As well as listening to callers, responding to emails and texts, and offering emotional support face to face, there are lots of ways people can get involved. We need people who enjoy fundraising, marketing, helping with admin or IT, and who are happy to apply their skills in different roles.”

Samaritans’ volunteers provide support to anyone who contacts them, whoever they are, however they are feeling, and whatever life has done to them. Volunteers based at its 201 branches across the UK and Ireland are also involved in outreach work in schools, colleges, workplaces and festivals and events throughout North and South of Ireland Samaritans also works with Accident and Emergency Departments to reduce deaths by suicide and support those affected by them.