In England, some 16 people a day take their own lives, usually as a result of being overwhelmed by feelings of despair and distress. This is a tragedy for the person taking their life, and for the many people affected by the loss. A suicide in a family, or circle of friends, hits people savagely and leaves them suffering for years.

Samaritans aims to prevent this tragedy by being available to listen confidentially and non-judgementally. By listening well, and using the listening techniques we have developed since our inception in 1953, and which we continue to develop, we help people to find space to explore their feelings. This alleviates distress and helps people reach a better understanding of their situation and the options open to them. Relative calm and optimism usually follows. We also do work in the community to help people develop compassionate interactions with others, and to improve mental wellbeing.

The Luton, South Bedfordshire and Harpenden Samaritans is a registered charity – charity number 1170449. We have to find all our own funding to keep our operation going – we receive no funding except that which we raise ourselves. It costs approximately £44,000 per year to keep the branch running. The only wages / salary included in that number is some £5,000 paid to our part-time cleaner, per year. All other costs relate to things like heating and electricity, phone and computer expenses, and building maintenance. With the exception of cleaning, everything else is done by volunteers. And we have some 121 volunteers, 100 of whom take shifts to cover our phones and speak to people in distress. We also interact with people by email, by online chat and in face-to-face conversations all depending on the preference of the caller.

Your donation would help us keep the service running. No donation is too small!