THE Samaritans’ helpline is available 24 hours a day seven days a week for those who are distressed and finding life difficult to cope.
And, Samaritans Limerick and Tipperary branch are recruiting volunteers to help answer the more than 30,000 calls a year they receive.
Limerick Branch Director Lorraine explains that “you don’t need to have been through a particular life experience or have particular skills to volunteer with us. Anyone who wants to help others, is tolerant and open-minded, and has three hours a week to spare is welcome to apply.”
“Volunteers receive full training to prepare them for the kinds of conversations they’ll have. Starting out, they will have a mentor to give them the confidence they are doing the right thing. As a listening volunteer, you get the chance to make a real difference to someone’s future. “
For those that may feel that being a listening volunteer isn’t for them but would like to pitch in any way they can, Samaritans are always looking for volunteers to help with administration, social media, PR, etc.
Anyone wanting to know more about Samaritans and meet some of their volunteers, there is an open evening on Thursday January 17 at 7.30pm at the Samaritans Centre on 20 Barrington Street in Limerick City. Information is also available from limerick.branchrecruitment@samaritans.org or samaritans.ie/limerick.
