What it takes to be a Samaritan volunteer

Everyone has it in them to be a Samaritans volunteer.

To touch another person’s life when it really matters, either by giving them the space to talk through how they are feeling or by helping to keep the charity’s branches running so the service can be offered by others.

Athlone Midlands is making a call to members of the local community, to sign up to support people who might not have anywhere else to turn.

If you have just a few spare hours a week they would like to hear from you.

Based at 3 Court Devenish, Athlone, the Athlone Midlands branch currently has 80 volunteers, but they are always looking to recruit more people to ensure they can continue to offer the service to the community.

Samaritans offers round-the-clock emotional support for anyone feeling down, depressed, anxious or unhappy. The confidential service is offered by phone, email, text, letter and face-to-face.

Director Pierce Murphy said: “By working together to support people struggling to cope, our branch is a rewarding place to spend your time.”

New volunteer Helen added: “Choosing to volunteer with Samaritans was one of the best decisions I ever made.

“I received extensive training, ongoing support and really valued having a mentor to guide me.

“It’s an amazing opportunity for personal development and growth too, as you discover things about yourself, as a Samaritan, that you weren’t previously aware of.”

Enquiries to athlonevols@gmail.com.

Information events:

Wednesday March 1, Bloomfield House Hotel, Mullingar, 8pm. Wednesday March 8, Radisson Hotel, Athlone, 11am.