A SAMARITANS volunteer raising awareness of the mental health charity by walking over 9,000km visited the Limerick Tipperary branch on Monday September 6 as part of his tour.
David Matthews is walking to all 201 Samaritans branches across Ireland and the UK to show people how a Samaritans volunteer is always there for them, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Catherine Slater, Branch Director said: “David has been an inspiration for Samaritans volunteers and callers and we are delighted to welcome him to our branch.”
Starting in his hometown of Doncaster, South Yorkshire, in April 2019, David’s Listening Walk has taken him across Ireland, England, Scotland, Wales, the Isle of Man and Channel Islands.
He hopes to return to his hometown and branch by November. David said: “I’m really looking forward to seeing the country and meeting the people while I’m there. It’s always nice if people stop for a little chat, or if a car toots and someone waves. It gives you a little spring in your step to keep going.”
His aim is also to raise awareness about Samaritans service, listen to people’s experiences, and recruit new volunteers along the way.
He was also raised almost €20,000 to date. To donate to David’s fund visit: uk.virginmoneygiving.com/DavidMatthews
