Worthing Samaritans launches Talk to Us campaign

The charity has continued to provide remote services throughout the pandemic and it wants to encourage people to get in touch when they need support, as it believes this is a time when listening to others has never been more important.

Since March, Samaritans volunteers have found one in three callers talks about coronavirus, with many people feeling more anxious and distressed than before the pandemic.

Volunteer surveys, which gathered more than 3,000 responses, found the most common concerns related to coronavirus were loneliness, isolation, mental health and illness, family, finances and unemployment.

Liz Riach, Worthing Samaritans director, said: “Our volunteers have been working day and night to be there for anyone who is struggling in these uncertain and challenging times.

“Lockdown restrictions have had a huge impact on everyday life for many people, as we’ve been hearing over the past few months, and our volunteers have been a much-needed source of support for those whose networks haven’t been available during the pandemic.

“Our outreach work remains on hold until further notice but we hope that the public can continue to support us in any way they can, to ensure that our volunteers can continue to be there for anyone struggling to cope.”

To donate to Worthing Samaritans, visit www.samaritans.org/branches/worthing

The Worthing branch is a charity in its own right, affiliated to Samaritans.

Worthing Samaritans will be taking part in the national charity’s Samarathon 2020 in July by inviting supporters to run, jog or walk a marathon in their own time, and at their own pace, to raise money for the branch.

The focus is on keeping fit to promote positive mental wellbeing ahead of Mental Health Awareness Week  

Liz said: “This is a challenge you can do on your own, with members of your household, or join with friends, family and work mates virtually, supporting each other’s progress wherever you are.

“Now more than ever we know getting active works wonders for your mental wellbeing. Samarathon is a great goal to motivate people to go at that their own pace. This fitness-fundraising initiative is focused on feeling good.

Supporters can sign up for free at www.samaritans.org/samarathon

Every July, the annual Talk to Us campaign is used to raise awareness of Samaritans and the services it offers. The charity particularly marks July 24, 24/7, as a way to help spread the message that volunteers are available to listen to anyone who is struggling 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Contact Samaritans free any time from any phone, even a mobile without credit, on 116 123 or email [email protected].

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