Samaritans has launched a new email address in a bid to reach more people who need support.
Volunteers answered more than 625,000 calls last year and sent almost 25,000 text replies.
It is hoped that through a new, dedicated, Ireland-only email [email protected], will encourage young people in particular to seek and receive emotional support when most in need.
Samaritans has 20 branches across Ireland (12 in the Republic of Ireland and eight in Northern Ireland) with a total of 2,500 active volunteers. They primarily offer emotional support on the freephone 116 123 helpline and have answered 2.3 million calls since the freephone number was launched in April 2014.
Cindy O’Shea, Irish regional director with Samaritans, said that volunteers will be available on the new email 24 hours a day, seven days a week, just like the charity’s freephone helpline and text message service.
Listen to the full interview below.
