Samaritans volunteers will be at the queue for Lying-In-State to offer emotional support to anyone in need.
Volunteers from Samaritans will be on hand to provide emotional support to people queuing to pay their respects to HM Queen Elizabeth II Lying In State this week.
Around 180 Samaritans volunteers will join volunteers, stewards and police to provide support and solace for those braving the rain to queue for Lying-In-State.
Samaritans volunteer, Heena Johnson is one of the volunteers providing support to visitors to London. Heena said: “It’s been a humbling experience, to be a part of history and to support those who need it. I’ve spoken to many people who have been paying their respects. Some have been only brief conversations that simply acknowledge the enormity of the loss of HM Queen Elizabeth II, but there have been others where people have opened up to reflect on experiences within their own life in the wake of the news.”
As part of its emotional support service, Samaritans volunteers have been on hand near sites of public mourning including Green Park to support visitors paying their respects.
Keith Leslie, Chair of Samaritans, said: “His Majesty The King is Samaritans’ patron and we are honoured to have been appointed the official emotional support service for members of the public during the 10 days of mourning. Our listening volunteers are on hand at the Lying-In-State queue to listen and support anyone who would like to talk openly about how they are feeling.
“We know the value of listening and the power of human connection, particularly at times like this so we encourage anyone struggling with the news to open up –whether that’s with Samaritans, a friend or a family member. It can help work through what you are facing and put things into perspective.”
If anyone finds themselves affected by HM The Queen’s passing or anything else that is making it hard to cope right now, Samaritans volunteers are also available over the phone on 116 123 or email at [email protected].