Our volunteers are ordinary people doing something extraordinary. Hear from some of them here.
Lynsey
I get so much more than I give back; it's humbling and rewarding to be able to help in some small way by being there for people who need us.
Lynsey
Lynsey is a volunteer at the Jersey branch and also volunteers at festivals.
"At festivals we offer emotional support, but in muddy fields, surrounded by tents and hundreds of people! It's a more proactive role - we approach festivalgoers who are passing by as well as being there for those who come to talk to us.
"I have learned so much about life and people. You can get involved in so much - over and above listening volunteering - and I've enjoyed that. I've trained volunteers and developed my training, presentation and management experience too.
"You'll meet some amazing people of all ages and from all walks of life."
I feel very privileged and proud to call myself a Samaritan but also humbled. I hope I have given courage to others and if I have helped just one person I’m grateful to have made a difference.
Rodney, Samaritans volunteer
Herbie
Volunteering with Samaritans is very flexible and I can fit it in around work and other commitments.
Herbie, Samaritans volunteer
Herbie is a volunteer in Putney.
"After seeing a poster on the Tube, I spoke to my local branch in Putney and the rest is history!
"I’ve always worked in hands-on industries, first in construction and now as an electrician. My role as a Samaritans volunteer couldn’t be more different to my day job.
"I've developed lots of useful skills through volunteering with Samaritans. I’ve found that I’m a better listener, which helps at work and with personal relationships. I’m also much calmer when I’m in stressful situations.
"I’ve volunteered with teachers, lawyers, musicians, students, retired people, workmen, bankers, actors and journalists. We all have one common goal – to support those who need us."
Lexy
The icing on the cake is when a caller says "Thank you for listening" and you feel that you have genuinely helped by giving them the time and space to talk.
Lexy, Samaritans volunteer
Lexy is a volunteer at in Guildford.
"I volunteered for Nightline at University and wanted to continue to help and support to others. I've lost a friend to suicide and hated the idea of someone else feeling they were alone and had no-one to talk to.
"Since joining Samaritans, I've learned to be more understanding that there may be all sorts going on for a person that you don't know about. It's so important not to make any assumptions or judgements. As Samaritans we have to be non-judgemental which is a valuable lesson to apply in every day life also.
"If you're thinking about volunteering do it sooner rather than later!"
Anyone who volunteers knows the variety of calls we get, but more often than not, loneliness is the common theme.
Rachael, Samaritans volunteer
Jamilia
Jamila is a new volunteer.
"I definitely had preconceptions of Samaritans - think call centre floor with partitioned booths taking back to back calls! But this couldn't have been further from the truth. What really struck me was the sense of belonging, a common purpose and desire to make a difference to the lives of others.
"After a while, I joined my mentor on my first call. It was from an articulate young man who talked about his suicidal feelings. Thirty minutes later, the tone of the call changed and I could sense the proverbial weight lift from the caller's shoulders.
"There were times during the training when I felt uncertain, but I'm so glad I persisted. Soon, I no longer feel daunted by the thought of taking my first call on my own. Now, I take quiet comfort in knowing that by answering the phone, I can helpsomeone feel better about themselves."