AS FEELINGS of loneliness and isolation begin to rise at Christmas, Samaritans in Limerick and Tipperary are reminding those in need that their helpline will be open during their darkest hours for those who need it.
Samaritans is the only all-island 24-hour emotional support freephone helpline, answering nearly half a million calls a year. Volunteers on the 24-hour-helpline answered more than 35,000 calls in Ireland last December, including almost 1,000 contacts on Christmas Day alone.
Samaritans are also calling on landmarks and buildings across the town/county to light up in green to mark the ‘longest night’ on Wednesday December 21, to remind those in need that Samaritans are here for them during the dark times.
Lorraine Thornbury, Samaritans Limerick and Tipperary branch director, said: “It has been very difficult for some people with the rising costs and for some this will be a very difficult Christmas”.
“We know that people struggle more at Christmas, it’s a time when loneliness can really hit home. We want people to know that we are available 24/7, including Christmas Day, for everyone on freephone 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.ie“.
Limerick City Hall, University of Limerick, Strand Hotel, and Clayton Hotel are among the many buildings turning green on December 21 to support Samaritan’s Longest Night campaign.
Lorraine said: “We really want to thank everyone supporting Samaritans Longest Night. Any other business who would like to take part can contact limerick.director@samaritans.org. Samaritan volunteers will also be fundraising in Limerick city centre at Cruises Street on December 21 from 1pm-5pm.”
