Ashford

A Hello From Our Branch Director

Welcome to Ashford and Tenterden Samaritans. My name is Kate Jamieson, and I am the current director of our small branch. I decided it was time to look for voluntary work after working in education, that would truly make a difference. I feel very proud to be the Branch Director of Ashford and Tenterden Samaritans. I am keen to look after our amazing volunteers and welcome new volunteers with open arms.

All some callers need is to be heard, whilst others talk through their problems, allowing them to find their own solutions as they voice them out loud. It is extremely rewarding to feel that you may have helped people and at times, saved a life. If this is something that you would be interested in doing with us, please see the Volunteer Information Page.

Kate Jamieson

Welcome To Our Branch

Ashford and Tenterden Samaritans was established on the 21st August 1972. We are a vibrant, diverse team of just over 50 volunteers who dedicate time and effort into creating a safe, non-judgemental space for our callers. Celebrating over 50 years of service, the Ashford and Tenterden Samaritans have made a lasting legacy in the local community.

As a small branch, we still have a significant impact to our callers. In fact, in 2024 we answered almost 12,000 calls for support in 2,500 volunteering hours. We also responded to 800 emails in this time. We aim to continue making a compelling difference to our callers when they need us the most.

Volunteer Spotlight

Get to know our longest standing volunteer, Bob. Click here to view his spotlight.

Outreach Work

At Ashford and Tenterden Samaritans, we are consistently working towards improving the local community and their awareness of the difficulties that people may face. Currently, we have some exciting developments forming with our local schools, Southeastern Railway, and HMP Elmley.

If you would like to speak to our incredible Outreach Team about the events taking place, or if you would like the team to discuss with your organisation, please contact [email protected].

Help support our Branch!

Our Ashford branch relies entirely on donations from the public, businesses and other organisations. It costs around £15,000 a year to run our operation. Please help us answer more calls for support at this crucial time. Any gift you feel able to give will help us continue to support those who are struggling to cope. Your donation could help save a life!

• £5 to answer a call for someone in need of support.
• £100 to keep our branch open for a day.
• £250 to train a listening volunteer.

Click here to donate to our Ashford Branch.

Fancy some fundraising?

We’d be delighted if you were able to raise some funds to help Ashford Samaritans provide emotional support around the clock. Your fundraising might be about having fun, achieving something for yourself or helping to raise awareness for a great charity.

We can help give ideas as well as help support and manage your fundraising or event, get in touch to speak to our team!

Our privacy statement

At Samaritans, privacy is at the heart of what we do. We are committed to protecting your privacy and the personal information that we hold. Read our privacy statement here.