Feelings of loneliness and isolation are on the rise at Christmas.
That’s according to Samaritans in Limerick and Tipperary, who are reminding those in need that their helpline will be open during their darkest hours if they are lonely or struggling to cope this Christmas.
Samaritans is a freephone helpline answering over 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 Limerick and Tipperary to light up in green to mark the ‘Longest Night’, December 21, to show people Samaritans are here for them during the long dark nights.
Lorraine Thornbury, director of the Limerick Tipperary branch of Samaritans, said: “We know that people struggle more at Christmas, as it’s a time when loneliness can really hit home. We want people to know that we are available 24/7 for everyone on freephone 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.ie.”
Donations to Samaritans Limerick and Tipperary branch can be made on idonate.ie/limtippsamaritans
