Samaritans issue appeal for new volunteers in Derry

The Samaritans in Derry are looking for new volunteers.

The charity will hold two information evenings at its local base at Clarendon Street.

They information events will be held at 7pm on Monday, September 4,  and Tuesday, September 5.

The Derry branch currently has 96 volunteers, but they are always looking to recruit more people to ensure they can continue to offer the service to the local community and the wider region.

Volunteers will have to commit to a few hours per week.

Lindsay, Branch Director, urged people to come along to next week’s events.

“The Derry Branch is making a plea 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.

“The Derry Branch responded to 38,000 calls for support last year.

“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.

“There are a wide range of roles available to suit people with different skills - from taking calls on our helplines, to providing administrative and IT support or organising fundraising activities for the branch.

“By working together to support people struggling to cope, our branch is a rewarding place to spend your time, as not only do we offer expert training which will benefit anyone as a volunteer or in any other part of their live and there are plenty of social activities too!.

“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.”