As the COVID-19 crisis continues the need for our service increases. The emotional distress people feel by being isolated can be acute, whether they are on their own or with family, it is extremely stressful. 1 in 3 calls for help are related to Coronavirus and every 6 seconds we receive a call for help. Our services are under strain, please help us to keep open when we are needed most.
Our fundraising has become extremely difficult, all our events and community related activities are no longer possible, leaving a very big hole in our finances, which is why we are launching this Emergency Appeal. We need to ensure that we are able to remain open 24/7 for our callers. In 2018 we answered 61,395 calls, responded to 8,202 emails and 10,149 texts, we are experiencing a surge in demand and need to be there day and night for those struggling to cope.
Central London Samaritans has been in existence for 67 years, operating 24/7, 365 days a year for all that time, we have never closed. To continue to operate our branch around the clock, to answer calls and emails from anybody who needs us is so important. Being heard by a real person, without judgement, and in a safe space to say anything they feel can make all the difference. We are determined that we will continue to do just that throughout the current unprecedented crisis.
The role our volunteers play in suicide prevention, not only serves to alleviate the severe distress of the individual. Supporting someone who is in suicidal crisis also prevents the tragic knock on suffering of the friends and family of the individual in question and represents a significant saving to the UK economy. 'Last Christmas, I didn't know whether I'd be around for another year. Thanks to Samaritans, I am.' - Samaritans caller
