Every 6 seconds, someone calls the Samaritans. But who are the people who answer the calls?
To mark our 50th year we are pleased to present First Duty, a photographic and film exhibition giving an exclusive look behind the scenes of the work of Samaritans in our branch.
Unique insight
Our branch has been supporting our local community since 1969. In the past 50 years we've trained more than 1,300 Samaritans who have responded to over 950,000 calls for help.
What we do when we take those calls is hidden - as a confidential service we don't share what goes on. This exhibition is a unique opportunity to see behind the green door and learn more about what Samaritans do.
In the summer of 2017, Phillip (a photographer and Samaritan), began a photographic study of Samaritans at our branch in Lewisham. Setting up his camera on the desk where we answer our calls, he used a timer to take photographs of our volunteers throughout different shifts.
The resulting images show how Samaritans support those in need - the people who chose to provide this support and the range of emotions that they go through while doing so.
Accompanying the images are audio recordings of Samaritans sharing their thoughts on what it takes to support someone in need.
I think sometimes the pauses in a conversation are as important as the words
Amanda
With the kind support of Out of the Brew you can now see the full exhibition on public display for the first time.
See the exhibition
6 - 28 September 2019
Mon-Fri 8.00-19.00
Sat 10.30-17.30
Private view 7pm Thursday 5 September