"I feel enormously privileged to be a part of this inspirational charity."
My grandfather took his own life on 20th April 1933, the date of my Mother’s 13th birthday. He left behind a wife, a daughter and a little son aged 4. All their lives altered course. My Mother spoke to me constantly across her life about the hardships of her childhood. I cannot remember a time when I was not aware of suicide.
In early retirement, I volunteered with a lovely charity called ‘Home Start’. My role was to befriend a family with young children and visit them once a week. I became involved with 3 different families over that period and it made me very aware that some people only require a listening ear to alter their lives.
I had discovered Home-Start from an advertising feature in Sherborne Library. Just when I felt that I needed a bigger challenge I saw an advertising feature for Samaritans in exactly the same place. This spoke to me strongly. I wasted no time and applied to become a Listening Volunteer.
To become a Samaritan I had to provide 2 references and attend a Selection Day. I well remember the nervous anxiety and excitement of that day. There are short talks, ice-breaking activities, group discussions and a personal interview. It is a wonderful opportunity to meet other like-minded people. I was thrilled when I received a call to say I had been accepted.
The training was a life changing experience. The Team who do it are exceptional and many other volunteers gave their time to come in to act the part of Callers so we could do “skills practice’ which would feel realistic.
The next phase of training involved coming in with a caring Mentor to listen to real Callers on the phone and then to take the calls myself. On that first occasion I visibly shook the whole way through a 3 hour shift. What I came to realise was how well prepared I had been. I found that I did know what to say and I could cope.
There are times when I have been deeply moved and times when I have been reduced to tears. But support is always there. The charity is organised in such a way that we are never alone and there is always someone to speak to, someone to share our feelings and emotions.
I feel enormously privileged to be a part of this inspirational charity.
Could you volunteer with Samaritans?
If you are over 18, why not join us at our information evenings on the first Wednesday of every month which will be held at our current premises at 25 The Park, Yeovil BA20 1DG until we move to our new centre. You will be fully trained and become part of a supportive, friendly and worthwhile organisation working in a fantastic new building.
To find out more, call our information line on 01935 414015, email [email protected] or visit our website at https://www.samaritans.org/branches/samaritans-yeovil-sherborne-and-district