Stockport Samaritans return to the community

As restrictions are lifted Stockport & District Samaritans has returned into the community today, Saturday 24th July, for the first time since lockdown restrictions began in March 2020.

They’re raising awareness of local support services as part of their Talk To Us campaign, running throughout July.

The campaign aims to remind the public that whatever they’re facing, Samaritans volunteers are there to listen 24/7. 

During the pandemic, Samaritans’ helpline has been an important source of human connection for some callers in the absence of their usual social contact, and volunteers have clocked up more than one million hours listening to those struggling to cope during the pandemic.

The challenges that people face up and down the country have been felt even more deeply over the last year, as the pandemic has had a profound impact on the nation’s mental health.

With restrictions lifting and continued change, many people may find returning to everyday life more challenging than others.

To help, volunteers from the Stockport & District Branch of Samaritans are restarting their support work going out into the local community.

On 24th July volunteers are at Stockport Station to talk to locals about their services and provide emotional support to anyone who may need it.

“The challenges that many people have faced because of the pandemic are continuing and while the lifting of restrictions will be welcomed, it won’t necessarily ease with restrictions lifting,” said Tracey Murray, director of the branch.

“At Stockport Samaritans, we’re so thrilled to be out within the community again and supporting people.

“We know how powerful listening can be. Listening helps us build relationships, be there for others and it can save lives.

“It’s so important to reach out for a chat with someone you care about.

“Whether in person or virtually, it’s just about taking time to really listen to another person which can, in turn, help them work through what’s on their mind.”

Samaritans have worked in partnership with Network Rail and the wider rail industry for over 10 years, providing support and vital suicide prevention training to identify and approach vulnerable people and save lives.

To date, more than 22,000 rail and British Transport Police staff have been trained.

To find out more information about Samaritans, or to make a donation and find out other ways you can support Stockport & District Samaritans visit samaritans.org/branches/stockport/ or you can donate by text. Text STOCKPORTSAMS to 70085 to donate. Anyone can contact Samaritans, free, 24/7, 365 days a year, on 116 123, email [email protected] or visit samaritans.org.