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Christmas time is busy for all of us but unfortunately it's not always filled with joy and many people find it difficult for whatever reasons to get through the period as the local branch of the Samaritans knows only too well.
The Newry/Dundalk branch of Samaritans, at 19 St Coleman's Park, Newry, is preparing itself for another busy Christmas. The Newry/Dundalk branch answered over 15,000 calls for help last year and the St Coleman's Park branch will be fully staffed over the holidays, with Volunteers on duty answering calls around the clock from people struggling to cope this Christmas.
The national helpline will answer thousands of calls a day from people in the UK and ROI over the festive period.
This time of year can increase feelings of loneliness, people may be in 'strained' family situations, they may have overspent, they might have all the usual issues plus many more.
Samaritans are there, all day, every day, to listen - in confidence and without judging - and to help people talk through their difficulties.
Stephen Hoddell, Chair of Samaritans, said: “This time of year can be an incredibly difficult time and we want to let people know that Samaritans is here if things are getting to them. When many other services shut down for the holidays, our volunteers continue to be available, answering calls round the clock. Thank you to every single person who is spending Christmas volunteering, you are inspirational. ”
