Samaritans answer 30,000-plus calls for help locally

Overall, 21,007 volunteers responded to 5,331,295 calls for help in the UK and Republic of Ireland.

Samaritans’ volunteers are ordinary people, who dedicate time every week to provide a safe space for anyone struggling to cope with whatever life has thrown at them.

Volunteers from the Pendle, Burnley, Craven and Rossendale branch on Market Square are also involved in outreach work, visiting social groups, schools and colleges, as well as maintaining a presence at major local events.

Ian Hartley, director at our Samaritans branch, welcomes the opportunity to celebrate the difference their volunteers make in their local community. “I’m so grateful to all of our volunteers at Pendle, Burnley, Craven and Rossendale branch.

“I want to thank them all for their commitment and hard work. It’s great to see how they support people in ways that work well for our callers, on the phone, via email or visiting us in branch. We know that people who are struggling benefit from having a real person to connect with, someone who is trained to listen to them.

“Samaritans wouldn’t exist without the dedication of our volunteers. As well as listening on the helpline, there are lots of ways people can get involved with Samaritans, whether it’s fund-raising, marketing, helping with admin or IT, or offering other valuable skills. We are always looking for new volunteers, so get in touch!”

Find out more about volunteering for Samaritans by emailing: [email protected] or phoning 07514 421658 for more information.

Samaritans is available round the clock every single day of the year. They provide a safe place for anyone struggling to cope, whoever they are, however they feel, whatever life has done to them. You can contact their local Samaritans at 15 Market Square (694929).