Select a region
Jersey Samaritans have reminded islanders that their services are available 24/7 for anyone struggling over the Christmas period.
While December can be seen as a time of cheer, volunteers at the suicide prevention charity know that’s not the case for everyone and are anticipating around a quarter-of-a-million calls for help across their UK branches.
Volunteers at Jersey Samaritans – based in Hue Street in St Helier – are encouraging those finding the festive season difficult to reach out and not "struggle in silence".
Jersey’s Branch Director Tarnia Snepp said: “We know that this time of year can be difficult for all sorts of reasons.
"On top of the challenges people face throughout the year, which don’t just take a break for Christmas, there’s an added financial burden, expectation to appear happy, spending time with people we’re not necessarily comfortable around, while feelings of loneliness and bereavement may be heightened.
"On top of this, other sources of support might be less available with limited open hours and our regular routines are disrupted with work and social spaces closed.
"It’s so vital that people know our volunteers are there, available 24/7, if they’re struggling.”
Jersey Samaritans has launched its 'Break the Silence' campaign, which supports the volunteers who give up their time to talk to others.
Every 10 seconds one of Samaritans' 23,000 volunteers responds to a call for help around the UK.
A donation of £10 can help them keeping answering the phone to someone struggling to cope this winter.
To support Samaritans of Jersey, visit their website here.
Anyone can contact the service for free at any time from any phone on 116 123, even a mobile without credit.
Comments
Comments on this story express the views of the commentator only, not Bailiwick Publishing. We are unable to guarantee the accuracy of any of those comments.