Samaritans Announces Strategic Changes to Expand Crisis Support services
LONDON – Samaritans today unveiled a complete plan designed to future-proof the organization and enable it to answer more calls from individuals in crisis, while maintaining its 24/7, volunteer-driven service. The changes, currently focused on the UK, aim to address increasing demand and ensure the charity can continue to provide vital support to those struggling to cope.
The move comes as new data reveals the scale of the mental health challenge in England, with the latest survey indicating meaningful levels of psychological distress. (https://digital.nhs.uk/data-and-details/publications/statistical/adult-psychiatric-morbidity-survey/survey-of-mental-health-and-wellbeing-england-2023-24) Every 90 minutes, someone in the UK takes their own life, a statistic Samaritans is determined to reduce.
“We believe the power of human connection can prevent suicide and our volunteers offer a life-saving service to those in crisis, 24 hours a day, seven days a week,” said Julie Bentley, Chief Executive of Samaritans. “these two things will never change at Samaritans, and they underpin our founding purpose to reduce deaths by suicide.Although making these changes will be challenging for us, it is a challenge we are determined to face into. The plans we announce today will help us be here for more people who need our support, in the moment they need us the most. A moment too late isn’t an option for us.”
Samaritans responds to a call for help every 10 seconds, relying on the dedication of around 23,000 volunteers. The charity emphasizes that its service is free, confidential, and available to anyone, anytime, from any phone on 116 123, or via its website at www.samaritans.org.
The engagement process with volunteers in ireland will begin in 2027.
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Notes to Editors
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About Samaritans
* Every 10 seconds, Samaritans responds to a call for help.
* Samaritans volunteers are available round-the-clock to listen and support people. They won’t judge or tell you what to do.
* Anyone can contact Samaritans, free, any time from any phone on 116 123, even a mobile without credit. This number won’t show up on your phone bill. Or you can visit www.samaritans.org
* Samaritans is a charity and it’s the public’s kind donations and around 23,000 volunteers that mean we are always there for anyone struggling to cope. Find out how you can support us or volunteer with us.
