We were all shocked and saddened to hear of the tragic death on 27 February of one of our most experienced volunteers, Anne Wales. Anne was an active volunteer at this branch for 20 years.
Anne was passionate about our mission, that fewer people die by suicide, and the service we offer. She set high standards for herself and others. Anne donated thousands of hours of her time at all hours to Samaritans and to many people who benefitted from her kindness and compassion. She had a knack of seeing where there was the greatest need and quietly responding to it.
She was Director of the branch, in 2013-16, leading it through some major and complex changes. Anne regularly coached our new volunteers and many of them have spoken of her wisdom, her kindness, and how much she helped them to develop both as volunteers and as people. She was regularly involved in our work in schools and previously had been involved in developing our service in prisons. There are countless other examples of her working to promote Samaritans across the local community.
Our sympathies are with Anne’s family. It was a privilege to have known her.
Liz Hebden
Branch Director