“Samaritans, can I help you?”
Back in 1970 Samaritans opened its Cornwall branch at Treyew Road in Truro, and has become one of the busiest branches in the south west. This year it celebrates its 50th birthday. Over the past year, the centre took over 30,000 contacts by telephone, email or from face-to face visitors. The branch is staffed by over 100 listening volunteers, and an additional 25 support volunteers who help in running the branch and the thriving charity shop at Par Market.
Sue Wright (Director) commented “I know Samaritans provide such a vital service for so many people, particularly during the last six months, and I have the greatest respect for all our volunteers and what they do.”
Due to the pandemic the branch has been especially busy with many anxious callers. The centre has been able to function during this difficult time, but all Outreach events and many fundraising initiatives, including the Samaritans National Walk and branch birthday celebrations have been cancelled. Every volunteer, however, has been given a medallion of Cornish tin to mark this important milestone.
