We're here for you 24/7: Talk to Us campaign

Norwich Samaritans is reminding the public that its volunteers are here around the clock to offer a listening ear to anyone who is struggling to cope as part of its Talk to Us campaign.

The charity’s annual campaign, which takes place throughout July, highlights the power of talking.

As part of Talk to Us month, branches across the UK and Ireland will mark Samaritans Awareness Day on Sunday 24 July, one of the most important days in the charity’s calendar, to help spread the message that volunteers are available to listen to anyone who is struggling - 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Pete Leonard, Norwich Samaritans’ Vice Director, said: “It's been a challenging few years and we know that many people are still facing all kinds of pressure, however, we want to remind the public that they are not alone. It doesn’t matter how great or small the problems feel, our volunteers are here at any time of day or night, whatever they are facing.”

Volunteers at Norwich are also encouraging the public to drop a few coins in the branded buckets at Harford Bridge Tesco on Thursday 21 and Friday 22 July to raise vital funds for the branch in St Stephen’s Square – which will undergo refurbishment later this year - and ensure that it can continue to be there for anyone who needs a listening ear.

To round off the month’s activities, volunteers will also be present at Norwich Pride on Saturday, 30 July, having a stall in The Forum where people are welcome to come along, learn a bit about what the branch does in the city as well as get their face painted if they would like or try their hand at ceramic painting.

Samaritans’ volunteers across the UK and Republic of Ireland spent over one million hours responding to calls for help last year and continue to be there for anyone struggling to cope.

Anyone can contact Samaritans for free any time from any phone on 116 123, even a mobile without credit, or you can email [email protected].

For more information on how to get involved visit www.samaritans.org/support-us/campaign/talk-us/ or join in the conversation on social media using #TalkToUs.