Priority 5: Sustainability
Securing support so we can be here for anyone struggling to cope.
We committed £6.7m this year to drive progress in this priority area.
Sharing our skills to grow income
Through Samaritans Training and Engagement Programmes (STEP), we deliver workplace training that builds skills to protect mental health and support vulnerable colleagues or customers, while funding our frontline services.
In 2024, STEP generated over one million pounds in income for the first time. We delivered over 600 courses to 6,000 participants across sectors, including emergency services and finance. The programme is now CPD certified, strengthening its credibility. Feedback from clients like Amey, Kensington Mortgages, Barclays and the Scottish Ambulance Service highlights its growing impact.
I would really encourage people to do the STEP training. It teaches you how to listen, which can be a really difficult thing to do. And I mean listen properly, so you understand what someone is saying and can communicate to them that you understand. The training helped me to do that. I’ve always wanted to make a difference, and I feel that I can do that now.
Declan, Scottish ambulance call handler
The London Marathon
Barry, known as Usingh Bolt, TCS London Marathon
Further fundraising highlights
This year, thousands of supporters raised vital funds and challenged stigma through events across the UK and Ireland, helping us reach new audiences and stay open 24/7 for anyone struggling.
During the winter, our Break the Silence appeal raised over £500,000 and engaged more than 4,000 vital new supporters. For the first time, we also took part in the Big Give’s Christmas Challenge, raising £100,000, including matched funding from Cala Homes and The Rausing Trust.
YouTuber Jacksepticeye generously chose to support Samaritans through his annual festive live-streamed fundraiser, Thankmas. The event reached global audiences and raised £500,000 for us. And we’re grateful to Reverend and the Makers, who dedicated their Christmas single to Samaritans, helping to highlight our service and generate support during a time of year when it is most needed.
Community-led fundraising also made a huge impact. James Cooper ran a marathon every day of 2024, raising more than £130,000. And our Dawn Walk returned stronger than ever, uniting more than 2,000 people and raising over £280,000 in memory of loved ones.
These efforts have played a vital role in sustaining our services, building awareness, and helping ensure we can be here for anyone who needs us.