Powys Samaritans in Llandrindod Wells

Who are you, and what do you do? We are an independent local charity affiliated to the UK-wide Samaritans organisation. Our volunteers come from all over Powys. We run a phone line offering emotional support 24 hours a day.

What are the organisation’s short-term and long-term goals? To provide confidential emotional support to people experiencing feelings of distress or despair, including those who may be at risk of suicide, to improve their emotional health and to reduce the incidence of suicide.

How has the money raised been used in recent years? In 2021, using a grant from the Welsh Government, we purchased premises in Llandrindod Wells from which to run our service.The funds we raise pay for running costs and we are using any surplus to adapt the upper floors to provide training facilities for new volunteers.

Are you looking for more people to become involved? We have difficulty filling some of our shifts so we are running a training course starting in early March for new volunteers to join our team.We need people who can give 3 or 4 hours a week. If you are available to do occasional night time shifts you would be especially welcome. There is free parking and travelling expenses to Llandrindod are reimbursed.

Anything else you’d like our readers to know? You don’t need to have previous experience or qualifications to join our team because the training and mentoring will equip you to do this rewarding job.We are looking for people who are ready to listen and are non-judgemental and accepting of others.

Contact details: To find out more call 07907 192 590 or email recruiting@powyssamaritans.org.uk.

For emotional support day or night please call our free number 116123, email jo@samaritans.org or write to Freepost SAMARITANS LETTERS.