Community and Schools

Reading Samaritans are committed to working to make sure that everyone in our local Community is aware of what we do, and how we may be able to offer support when it is needed. This is what we call “Outreach” and it takes several forms. We are particularly interested in reaching people who may be at higher risk of suicide, and also young people

Schools

We offer a range of talks, workshops and activities aimed at school students. We mainly target young people in the 14-16 age range, though we can adapt our material for older or younger students. Activities include short introductory talks (which could be delivered in a school assembly), workshops suitable for a standard class, and longer talks which can be delivered to a whole year group. We also offer training to teaching staff on dealing with emotional awareness.

Teachers wanting to know more about what we do can look up the “DEAL” pack and other information about our support for schools on the national website

In recent years we have worked with several of the local secondary schools, and look forward to working with more.

Prisons

A team from Reading and Newbury Samaritans work at Reading Remand Centre and Young Offenders Institute, training a selection of young offenders with the skills to become "Listeners" within the establishment. These young men offer confidential emotional support to vulnerable young prisoners who may be at risk of suicide. The prison welcomes the work of the Samaritans and listeners in providing a service that will hopefully result in safer custody within our prison. In 2010, we started working with the new adult prison at Huntercombe, to offer a similar service there.

Talks

We are also available for talks to local community groups, clubs and workplaces about the work that we do. Talks usually last for about 45 minutes, but we can adapt to your needs. If you run a local group, why not invite us along to talk about our work?

Events

We regularly appear at local community events in order to make ourselves more visible and to remind people who we are and what we do! Look out for the Samaritans van and flags.

Our Area

Our area for Outreach purposes extends out to include Henley, Twyford, Winnersh, Swallowfield, Burghfield Common, Theale, Pangbourne, Goring and Sonning Common. Beyond this area, one of our neighbouring branches will be happy to take your call!

If you would like to know more about any of these options, please phone the Reading branch on 0118 926 6333 or email office@readingsamaritans.org.uk