At Coda Pharmacy, we truly recognise the importance of mental health. So when we had the chance to connect with the dedicated volunteers at the Eastbourne branch of the Samaritans, we knew it was an opportunity we couldn’t miss.
Samaritans is a national charity committed to reducing feelings of isolation and disconnection that can lead to suicide. They offer a 24-hour free helpline, available every day of the year, providing a safe, confidential, and non-judgemental space for anyone who needs to talk. Alongside this you can also write Samaritans a letter, email or make use of their online chat service. The Eastbourne and District Samaritans Haven is located on Bolted Road in Eastbourne town centre and also welcomes walk-ins for in-person support.
Samaritans Listener Volunteer, Caroline said: “We are here 365 days of the year 24hrs of the day. There’s no time that you can’t call the Samaritans. Often people's most desperate moments are late at night or early in the morning, it’s really important that they can ring somebody then.”
The work of Samaritans is vital, suicide remains a major public health issue, in 2023 there were 7,055 deaths registered as suicide across the United Kingdom, equating to an average of 19 suicides per day. By offering a safe space for people to talk openly, Samaritans help to prevent crises before they escalate. Early intervention can make a life-saving difference, giving individuals the chance to be heard and supported when they are most vulnerable.
Samaritans started 70 years ago and the Eastbourne branch is currently celebrating their 60th year. Over the last 70 years the charity has answered 134 million calls for help. These calls can be about anything and arent always suicide related.
“People can ring up about anything, we don’t require them to be suicidal. It’s even more important to talk before it gets to that stage. People can talk to us when they might find it difficult to speak to others for lots of different reasons.”
Volunteers at the Samaritans go through a series of high quality training sessions to ensure they are equipped for the listener role. If becoming a volunteer at the Samaritans interests you, the Eastbourne branch is always looking for more help. You can find more information here.
Samaritans Listener Volunteer, Nick said: “If people want to join the Samaritans it’s an amazing training course that they put you through. The brilliant thing about here is you’re never alone. If you feel troubled after taking a call, there’s always someone here to talk it through with.”
Coming up, the Samaritans will be joining the Arlington Bluebell Walk and Farm Trail based at Bates Green Farm. Taking place from the 28th-29th April, here they will be offering a space to talk as well as refreshments from the cafe. Alongside this they are currently holding Listening events at the Haven providing advice on how to become a good listener.
“Listening is a really valuable way of being able to support people, we can all talk and we can all listen. It’s important to give people space to be able to speak about what they are going through.”
We can’t thank Caroline and Nick enough for taking the time to speak with us and share such valuable insights. For more information from the Samaritans, head over to our social media pages through the links below.
If you are looking for further information on the Samaritans and want to know how you can support the charity, please visit their website here.
If you are currently facing mental health struggles of your own or simply need someone to talk to please do not hesitate to give Samaritans a call on 116 123. For further support please visit the links below.
NHS- How to find local mental health services.