Dunfermline Samaritans here for anyone struggling this Christmas and New Year
This year’s Winter campaign has a new, powerful theme which is 'Break the Silence and Bring Someone’s Future Back'. As part of the appeal we're emphasising the critical role that our supporters have in helping keep Samaritans volunteers listening so we can prevent suicide and bring someone's future back.
Volunteers at Dunfermline Samaritans are encouraging everyone who is finding the festive season difficult to reach out and not struggle in silence.
While December is marketed as the ‘happiest time of the year,’ volunteers at the suicide prevention charity know that’s not the case for everyone – and are anticipating around a quarter of a million calls for help.
Media spokesperson Ged Lafferty from Dunfermline Samaritans said: “We know that this time of year can be difficult for all sorts of reasons. On top of the challenges people face throughout the year – which don’t just take a break for Christmas – there’s an added financial burden, expectation to appear happy, spending time with people we’re not necessarily comfortable around, while feelings of loneliness and bereavement may be heightened.
“On top of this, other sources of support might be less available with limited open hours, and our regular routines are disrupted with work and social spaces closed. It’s so vital that people know our volunteers are there, available 24/7, if they’re struggling.”
To ensure its volunteers continue providing emotional support, Samaritans have launched its Break the Silence campaign, asking people to help to keep Samaritans here for people when they’re ready to talk. A donation as little as £10 will help Samaritans answer a call for help from someone struggling to cope this winter.
Samaritans’ volunteers are always here to listen and will not judge or tell you what to do. Call free, day or night, on 116 123, email [email protected] or visit www.samaritans.org. Also, those contemplating volunteering with Samaritans of Dunfermline or feeling they want to support us can find out more by visiting www.samaritans.org/dunfermline
