As restrictions lifted, Samaritans volunteers across the UK returned to their local rail stations for the first time since lockdown restrictions began in March 2020, to raise awareness of local support services as part of its 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 and available on 116 123 or by emailing jo@samaritans.org. 

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, Samaritans volunteers resumed its support work in the local community, with volunteers talking to locals about their services and providing emotional support to anyone who needed it. Many of the volunteers were joined at the events by partners from Network Rail, British Transport Police and train operating companies. Gary Jones, Suicide Prevention Co-ordinator from Network Rail attended his local event and said “I took the opportunity to spend some time with Samaritans Outreach workers at Liverpool South Parkway. What a lovely, positive and engaging group they were. A real mix of ages and different life experiences. These volunteers are a huge asset to public safety on our railways and in the wider community.”

Over 120 boxes of Samaritans and Network Rail partnership materials were delivered to volunteers, with Samaritans’ five Regional Development Leads coordinating events in each region. To organise for your local Samaritans branch to visit stations, please contact your Regional Development Lead who would be happy to coordinate the events, as community outreach remains a vital part of the suicide prevention programme and industry partnership.