SamStories - Ella

My name is Ella and I am a listening volunteer for the Samaritans.

When the Samaritans was founded, it was perceived as a ‘999 for the suicidal’, however listening volunteers today hear stories about anything causing emotional distress from a wide range of people of different ages and backgrounds. This means no two shifts are the same, so volunteers have to be ready to set their own beliefs aside and offer emotional support whatever the reason for calling. Although there’s always a second of apprehension when the phone rings, due to the extensive training and mentoring shifts, I feel prepared to support the caller. The support network at the Samaritans is fantastic, to always feel there is someone there to help you when taking those difficult calls, and check how you are after.

I would really encourage others to join the Samaritans as it provides you with so many useful skills that can be used both on shift and in your general life; learning to take the time to really listen to what someone else is saying without giving your own opinion or advice, and then empathise with them is so valuable. I currently work as a support worker and use the listening skills learned from the Samaritans training daily to be patient and non-judgemental. I am hoping to pursue counselling as a career, so the Samaritans has provided me with fantastic training and experience to listen to others and help them to explore their feelings and options.

I’ve volunteered with a few organisations before but have found the Samaritans the most rewarding; to be that source of support for someone in their time of need is a really special feeling so you leave each shift knowing you have made a difference. Many people that phone the Samaritans are on long waiting lists to see mental health professionals, so are really grateful that we provide a free listening service to help them through this time, with one caller telling me they view the Samaritans as ‘the 4th emergency service’. It is amazing to be part of a group of caring people who give their time to help others, and to have that knowledge that there is always someone there to listen if ever needed.