Lifeline volunteers recognised for outstanding commitment to emotional support and suicide prevention
Three dedicated Samaritans volunteers have been recognised in the King’s Birthday Honours List, celebrating their exceptional contributions to supporting those in crisis and helping to save lives.
Maggie Mehta, Kate Hamilton and Annette Ware, who, in combined years, have volunteered with Samaritans for almost a century, were honoured for their unwavering commitment to being there for those in crisis. Maggie and Annette will receive an MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire), while Kate has been awarded a BEM (British Empire Medal).
Maggie Mehta is Branch Director at Samaritans Redbridge Branch, and has been volunteering for the charity for 45 years:
“I was so surprised when I opened the letter - I saw ‘Cabinet Office’ on the envelope and thought, what on earth could this be? When I read the contents, I was completely blown away. I never expected to receive such an honour."
“Volunteering with Samaritans is a huge part of my life and who I am. I first joined in 1980, thinking I was just taking a short break from my teaching career - and I’ve never looked back.
Maggie
"Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of being involved with Samaritans branches all across the country - from Shetland all the way down to Truro. Every day is different, and our work is so important.
Maggie will be invited to attend a special ceremony by St James Palace later in the year.
“I see this honour as a reflection of the outstanding organisation that Samaritans is, and especially my incredible fellow volunteers at the Redbridge branch – it stands as a testament to amazing work we do to support those in need.”
Kate Hamilton, based at Samaritans Reigate branch, also expressed pride and gratitude:
“I’m astonished to have been awarded a BEM, I’m waiting for the news to sink in! I’ve been volunteering with Samaritans for 17 years now, and I continue because it’s such incredibly rewarding work.
Kate
"I firmly believe that we all need someone to talk to, not everyone has someone they can say things out loud to, we provide that for people, and sometimes that really can be the difference between life and death.
“For the past 15 years, I’ve volunteered in prisons for Samaritans, which has marked a particularly meaningful part of my life. It has always interested me how, in many instances, one bad decision or moment of poor judgement can completely change the course of someone’s life.
Kate will be presented with her medal by the Lord Lieutenant of her County in a local ceremony, she will also be invited to a Royal Garden Party.
“Receiving this honour means the world to me, but I truly don’t feel any more worthy than my fellow volunteers. Every single one of them gives so much of themselves to support others, and I’m proud to be part of such a compassionate and committed community.”
Annette Ware, a volunteer from Samaritans Newport and Gwent Branch in Wales has also been awarded a MBE for her services to the charity.
It’s an honour of its own to see our volunteers recognised in the King’s Birthday Honours. Their dedication, compassion, and tireless commitment to supporting people in crisis is truly inspiring. This recognition is a powerful reminder of the vital role volunteers play every day at Samaritans, offering hope and help when it’s needed most.
Julie Bentley, Chief Executive of Samaritans
About Samaritans
- Every 10 seconds, Samaritans responds to a call for help.
- Samaritans volunteers are available round-the-clock to listen and support people with whatever they are facing. They won’t judge or tell you what to do.
- Anyone can contact Samaritans, free, any time from any phone on 116 123, even a mobile without credit. This number won’t show up on your phone bill. Or you can visit www.samaritans.org
- Samaritans is a charity and it’s the public’s kind donations and around 23,000 volunteers that mean we are always there for anyone struggling to cope. Find out how you can support us or volunteer with us.