Trigger warning: suicide

Many will be aware of the charity known as the Samaritans. It is an organisation with international recognition and one of the most well-regarded support networks, assisting those in need or who may be struggling to cope. Fewer, however, will be aware of how recently the organisation began or of the values that motivates its progress.

The Samaritans was founded in 1953 by Reverend Chad Varah. Following the suicide of a young girl who was tragically convinced she had contracted an STD when, in fact, she was menstruating, Varah then took to organise his church to offer support to those who might similarly be considering suicide. He did this by advertising church volunteers as listeners who would be willing to talk to those in need. This endeavour proved to be immensely popular and within a decade the charity expanded to 40 sites and now has over 200.

What is slightly more complicated is the work of the Samaritans. It has historically been a charity focussed on the prevention of suicide, one that achieves this by offering support in the form of listening. However, in recent years and in the face of growing levels of emotional distress, the Samaritans has shifted away from its founding identity as an emergency service, one aimed at those contemplating suicide or in similar distress, and has since expanded to support any and all forms of emotional need.

This transition to a broader support service is relatively new and continues to cause confusion among those who may find themselves wanting to talk to someone for help. Individuals may find themselves unwilling to reach out to the Samaritans due to the impression that it is a service solely for those in severe need. 

Another element that has changed how the Samaritans operates is technology. The Samaritans has been quick to adopt new technology and forms of communication, now offering support services via telephone, email, and instant message, in addition to face-to-face, all of which can be accessed at any hour on any day of the year.

This year, on July 24th, which is Samaritans Awareness Day, the charity will continue its annual Talk To Us campaign. The day will see branches across the UK host a number of events, opening their doors to individuals and groups to talk about the services they offer. It is also an opportunity to convey to those considering supporting the charity by volunteering the difference that their help can make.

Suicide continues to be prevalent across the UK with 115 individual cases occurring every week. The same data reveals that 1 in 5 have suicidal thoughts, with 1 in 15 attempting suicide. These figures demonstrate the continued need for The Samaritans and other similar support services. 

Considering the rising mental ill-health figures and growing number of disorders, it is also easy to understand as to why the Samaritans have begun to extend their support outside the remit of suicide prevention services and offer support to those in distress too. It is estimated that levels of psychological distress in the UK are currently over 20%.

If you’d like to support your local Samaritans branch, now is a brilliant time to do so and July 24th will likely see a number of local events take place to help raise awareness. If you’d like to reach out to the Samaritans for support, there are a wide variety of ways to do so, all of which are listed on their website.