Samaritans looking for volunteers

Cork Samaritans is hosting an information night for prospective volunteers on 10 November in the Metropole Hotel. Director of Cork Samaritans, Pio Fenton says that due to the unprecedented demand on the service new volunteers are badly needed.

"We have faced a situation over the past two years which has been incredible. The number of calls being made to Samaritans has increased substantially in that time, with many calls relating to the economic difficulties the country is facing."

Mr Fenton says that the information evening is about letting people know about what is involved in being a Samaritan. The charity is the largest support of its kind in the country and is entirely dependent on volunteers to man the service. Currently there are 2,000 volunteers in Ireland and 180 are based in Coach Street in Cork.

Samaritans is noted for its work in supporting those that are suicidal but Mr Fenton states that the organisation is involved in a range of work aimed at instilling a proactive approach to mental health.

"We work in schools, community groups, youth clubs and sports' clubs to get the message out about emotional first aid. We believe that we should look after our mental well-being as closely as we do our physical well-being."

Anyone interested in volunteering with Samaritans is encouraged to show up to the information night which starts at 7.30pm or email director@corksamaritans.ie. If you are in need of support or you know anyone who may be in need of support, you can contact Samaritans at 1850-609090 or email jo@samaritans.org.