The Samaritans - has anyone ever talked to them?

Moggins_2

I wasn't undermining their role as like I say my mum had volunteered there for years and is a team leader on the board so I know how hard they work

Person_one

Moggins wrote: »

I wasn't undermining their role as like I say my mum had volunteered there for years and is a team leader on the board so I know how hard they work

I know, just clarifying the point about 'just' volunteers, that's not the reason they don't give advice.

I believe the training course is actually pretty involved, as I'm sure you know thanks to your mum.

daisiegg

Yes I have phoned them once before when I was so unhappy I was scared about what I might do. The lady I spoke to was very good and it was really helpful just to have someone to listen.

BlondeHeadOn

I used to be a Samaritan for a number of years, and I can confirm all that has been said above about them not being able to give advice - but are fantastic for a listening ear or a sounding board. Any time of the day or night as well, and all calls are treated seriously. They will not judge you, just listen and be there for you when you need them.

The volunteers all have extensive training (I know I did!), and are totally confidential.

All in all it's a wonderful service - do call them if you are in need of someone to talk to, that is what they are there for.

Jellybro

I too used to be a Samaritan.
They are very well trained to "listen" and give you the time and support to work through your worries and feelings. You can call 24hrs a day, visit your local branch for a personal chat or email. They really are very kind and caring people who never judge and keep everything you say confidential.
Please call them if you need them, that's what they are there for!

iamashoppingaddict

Well I went in and spoke to a lovely lady and a trainee who was there to observe.

They listened to what I had to say and she was really supportive and lovely.

I came away feeling a bit lighter.

However I wish she could have given some advise, a perspective on what I was saying. However I completely understand why she and others can't and have no problem with that. I may try to investigate some other services as well.

If anyone is thinking of talking to them I'd recommend them without hesitation and will speak to them again without a doubt.

rockie4

I've spoken to them on the phone several years ago in the early hours when I was really down and had no one to turn to, the woman I spoke to was so nice and I felt better afterwards. I would do the same again if I had to.

Ich_2

I suspect our son is on shift answering the phone or email as we type. As already stated they will listen but not judge or advise.
Any decision must be yours and yours alone

Racheldevon

Hi there,
lots of good advice above in answer to your question.
Just to add most towns/cities have low cost counselling/therapy serrvices that you can refer yourself into often from £5 per session, you don't have to be on benefits. If you google low cost counselling into google alongside your area - see what comes up. You may also have some counselling/psychotherapy training institutes in your area, and these too may provide a low cost, service for those who've reached the required stage in their training who work under clinical supervision to provide a reduced cost service - all worth exploring maybe. If you have children under 5 your local sure start children's centre may well have a free counselling service you can access so if this applies give them a ring to find out, good luck

zaksmum

I did once...many moons ago.

The Samaritan guy asked to meet up with me to "talk" and I was too young and stupid to realise he really shouldn't be doing that.