Cheltenham and Gloucester Samaritans provide emotional support to more than 78,000 callers every year. To provide this help to the distressed, desperate and suicidal costs over £80,000 per year and requires the generously given time of more than 220 volunteers.

It takes so much for someone to call Samaritans.

So much courage. So much pain. So much desperation. Sometimes our callers have reached the final breaking point after years of loneliness, depression, stress or even abuse. Others may be trying to cope with a sudden, traumatising event, such as the break-up of a marriage, the loss of a job or a recent bereavement.

Whatever the reason that someone calls us, it is vital that when that moment comes, whether it be day or night, we are ready to answer the cry for help. We are even open on Christmas Day.

But we need your help - to keep those phone lines open.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving – they’ll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they’ll send your money directly to the charity and make sure Gift Aid is reclaimed on every eligible donation by a UK taxpayer. So it’s the most efficient way to donate - for you and us.