Isle of Wight Samaritans is appealing for donations from local residents to help ensure its volunteers can continue to support people struggling to cope during this crucial time.
Following Government’s confirmation that Samaritans volunteers are critical to supporting vulnerable people, Isle of Wight Samaritans is making every effort to ensure that they are able to provide emotional support to anyone in crisis.
Volunteers that are able to carry out shifts at the Isle of Wight branch are following strict guidelines on hygiene standards and social distancing. The situation will be continually monitored to ensure that volunteer safety is prioritised.
Branch Director at Isle of Wight Samaritans, Hugh, said:
“For over 50 years, our branch has provided a listening ear to anyone who needs support, which has been possible through the support of the community, from the Isle of Wight and further afield.
“Now more than ever, we need the public’s continued support. Because of the closure of our shop and the threatened cancellation of the Solent Swim, we are facing a significant loss of funding. So we are calling on Isle of Wight residents to help us ensure that we continue to be here for anyone who needs support.”
A donation as little as £5.00 will help volunteers to answer a call for help from someone struggling to cope and be there when people need support the most. A donation of £100 will pay for the branch to remain open for a whole 24-hour day.
To make a donation and find out other ways you can support Isle of Wight Samaritans, visit www.virginmoneygiving.com/fund/IoW-Samaritans-Emergency-Appeal
If you are experiencing feelings of distress or despair, you can call The Samaritans in confidence on 116 123. Help is at hand when you need it - you don’t have to be suicidal to get in touch.
Thank you to all Samaritans Times like this are so important as there will be a rise in suicides with people losing jobs and Buissneses. People forget about the Samaritans that can save lives. I Hope you can get many donations soon. One charity on the island seems to always be at the front as it effects so many people’s lives but Suicide effect just as many lives and they deserve more.