Samaritans Awareness Day 2024!

Albus_Scope

Hello, my wonderful Scope community!

Ever wondered who's always there for you, come rain or shine? It's the Samaritans, an exceptional group of people known for their extraordinary work in mental health. They’re that dependable friend who’s always there, even at the most ungodly hours! Yesterday was Samaritans day, a day to celebrate their amazing work. But unfortunately this article is a day late, but the whole month is about raising awareness for them so it's all good.

Our story begins in 1953, with a vicar (and cartoonist) named Chad Varah. Deeply concerned for individuals battling their inner demons, particularly those contemplating suicide, he set up a 'listening service' from his church's crypt in London. You heard me right, a crypt. 😐️

It all started with Chad, a phone volunteer operating the switchboard. One lone man, fighting back the darkness! In December 1953, just a month after launching, the Daily Mirror coined the phrase, 'Telephone Good Samaritan'. Although Samaritans is not a religious organisation, the name stuck and word spread far and wide.

At first, Chad was skeptical of these volunteers. He let them sit with people as they waited for a counselling appointment with Chad. But often people would pour out their problems to volunteers and many felt no need to speak to Chad afterwards. The power of volunteers – to listen, confidentially and without judgement – turned out to be the real strength of the service.

In February 1954, Chad officially handed over the task of supporting the callers to volunteers, and Samaritans as we know it today was born.

Fast forward to the present, and the Samaritans have grown into a formidable force of over 23,000 volunteers across the UK and Ireland. They're available 24/7, every day of the year, offering a comforting shoulder/ear to anyone in emotional distress. They aren't just a crisis hotline; they'll also lend an ear to anyone who needs to voice their worries with no judgment.

The Samaritans' contribution to mental health is monumental. They often serve as the first point of contact for people feeling isolated and desperate. Their unwavering support has saved numerous lives, acting as a ray of hope in their darkest hours and are often contacted before GPs or even friends are involved.

This month, let's applaud their commendable work and emphasise the importance of being there for those in need. It's a gentle reminder that it's perfectly normal to feel not so normal, and there's always someone ready to listen. As the phrase goes "It's ok to not be ok."

We may not all be Chad Varah, but we can certainly try to follow his example. So, be it over a lovely cuppa tea, during a brisk walk, or in your local church's crypt (ok maybe not the last one), let's make an effort to truly listen to each other. You never know, you could be someone’s lifeline.

Please remember, you're never truly on your own. Reach out, chat, listen, and let's look out for one another. ❤️

In the UK, you can reach the Samaritans on their free contact number, 116 123. You’re not alone; help is always just a phone call away.

https://www.samaritans.org/

Thanks Chad, you legend. ❤️

Strawberry1

I think Samaritans are amazing I've used them alot over many many years. ThAnk you Samaritans for existing 💖

Agnia

The Samaritans are very kind, warm and empathetic people

They helped me that ii could talk to them ( ii did call them twice a day sometimes) about my situation and my pain and when i was feeling that i will loose my mind and i im still feeling like that and when i was completely lonely and i experienced other things that were very difficult for me

Albus_Scope

I'm so glad to hear you've all had positive experiences with Samaritans. 😊

Yes @Biblioklept it was great fun doing a deepdive into their history, every day is a school day! Though it was the mirror, not the Daily Mail. 😉

Albus_Scope

Haha, I often do the same, but I can always spot the Daily Mail being mentioned straight away. 😆