Welcome to the website of the Grimsby, Cleethorpes and District Samaritans.

Volunteering for Samaritans

So, what's it like being a Samaritan volunteer?

You're reading this, so I guess you're a bit curious about the life of a Samaritan. We are ordinary people, of all ages and backgrounds, who listen attentively and unhurriedly to people who are in a crisis, despairing or suicidal.

What now?

Well, you can read on, and find out a little bit more. You can also contact the branch on 01472 240077, and a member of the recruitment team will be in touch as soon as possible.

Hang on, not so fast.

No commitment, honest. Just to find out more

What happens next?

If you are interested, you will be asked to fill in an application form, and then attend the next recruitment day. These are usually held twice a year. There will also be an interview shortly after the recruitment day. We aim to make the recruitment events and interviews as friendly and informal as possible. You will have the opportunity to ask questions, and at the interview we will ask about your background, life experiences, and reasons for wanting to be a Samaritan.

But I've never done any counselling

Good, there's no need to have. We don't give advice to people. If you are recruited, you will attend a series of preparation classes, in which life-like situations are acted out and discussed, and you will be taught how you  can help our callers.

But I couldn't listen to all that sad stuff. How do you sleep at night?

Well, not every shift is about life and death for a start. Sometimes, the satisfaction is just in being there when you are needed. But, sad stuff, well, you will always have a colleague with you on every shift. Also, there is always someone at the end of a phone for us, to support and offload to at the end of every shift. You will never be alone.

What if someone says they have committed a crime?

We listen to them

That's all, no police?

We can't trace calls. Everything is completely confidential within the organisation.

What if someone says they are going to take their own life?

Well, we hope they won't. We wouldn't be Samaritans if we didn't believe that listening could help to reduce distress and despair.

You'll tell them not to do it?

No

What!

No. Samaritans believe in the right of the individual to do as they choose, including the right to take their own life. We hope that they don't, and that talking will help them to see other options. We do ask every caller if they are having suicidal thoughts.

So, what's in it for me?

A lot. You'll be joining a great team of around 40 people in our local branch, aged between about 18 to 70+, as well being part of a much larger national movement. You'll make friends, feel good, and really feel that you are helping others. You'll also develop skills in listening and relating, which could be useful at work and at home, and learn how to support people who are depressed or bereaved. But best of all...........

Yes?

Hearing "I was desperate when I rang. Didn't know if I could go on. I feel I can cope with today now. Thanks for being there."