Samaritans in Ireland has launched a new campaign urging the public to Donate Your Voicemail to support others in need.
Musicians Bressie, The Corrs, Kodaline and Aaron Rowe have backed the campaign, which encourages people across Ireland to record a new voicemail message that lets callers know that while you can't pick up right now, Samaritans can, on 116 123, day or night.
By changing their voicemail greeting every missed call reminds the person on the other end that Samaritans are there to answer, 24/7, day or night.
The initiative was launch on Samaritans Awareness Day, 24/7, which reminds people we are here 24/7.
“Samaritans’ volunteers answered 350,000 calls for help last year. However, people in crisis don’t always know how to reach out for help, especially if they are struggling in the middle of the night. This campaign aims to change that, making sure that the next time someone can't get through to a family member or friend, they're reminded Samaritans are here for them 24/7 on freephone 116 123."
Sarah O'Toole, Executive Director at Samaritans Ireland
Mural in Dublin city centre
Murals appeared in Dublin and Cork overnight, with the simple message: “Call me anytime 083 382 7290”.
When someone called the number, they heard a message from Nicola, a former caller, on how Samaritans was there for her in her darkest hours. She encourages those on the end of the phone to donate their voicemail for the campaign, which was led by Droga5 Dublin, part of Accenture Song.
“Every creative decision is guided by one goal: helping more people know that support is always available so that no one struggles alone. Something that only takes a couple of minutes could save someone’s life,” said Alex Ingarfield, Creative Director at Droga5, part of Accenture Song.
Visit www.donateyourvoicemail.ie for more information.