MP supports Samaritans

Macclesfield MP, David Rutley, gave his support for the important work of Samaritans ahead of World Suicide Prevention Day on 10^th September. World Suicide Prevention Day is an awareness raising event organised by the International Association for Suicide Prevention and the World Health Organisation.

During his visit to Samaritans, a branch with 120 volunteers providing support to people in and around Macclesfield, David discussed the important work of Samaritans in seeking to prevent suicides, particularly following recent tragic deaths on local railways.

Last year alone, Samaritans received over 5.3 million calls for help. More than 20,000 volunteers mean that at any given time, Samaritans is there for people who are struggling to cope. Volunteers do not lecture or give advice, but rather give people the time and space they need to talk. Whatever people are going through, they can call Samaritans free any time from any phone on 116 123 (this number is free to call and will not appear on phone bills), email jo@samaritans.org, or visit www.samaritans.org to find the opening hours of the local branch.

Samaritans’ Macclesfield Branch Director, Phil Borrows, said: “Suicide is the biggest killer of men under 50 and of young people aged 20 – 34. Yet people still wait until they have reached crisis point before talking to us. You don’t need to be suicidal to talk to us and we know that given the time and space to talk, you will find it easier to see past your problems. You can call us, email us or visit us in branch. No matter what, we’re in your corner and you can tell us anything, it will always stay between us. To offer the best possible service we need more people to come forward and volunteer with us. You will be helped every step of the way with training and support. Our next information evening is on Wednesday 2^nd November, 7.30pm at Read House, Boden St, Macclesfield SK11 6LL.”

 Following his visit, David said: “I am most grateful for all the invaluable work that Samaritans do to help those who are struggling in our community. Those who feel that they would like to contribute in a similar way should get in touch with Samaritans to find out more. The work Samaritans do quite literally saves lives – they are a great example of selfless service to others.”