The Samaritans helpline has really felt the pressure during the Coronavirus crisis, so I want to do my bit this Christmas to help raise awareness and much needed funds for such a vital service.

I will be completing a 24 hour treadmill challenge as part of a corporate Charity Challenge (#TeamPurpleYOUR24). The aim will be to cover the distance between High Wycombe and The Samaritans Branch in Birmingham (approx 100miles), where my sister is one of the Guardian Angels offering support to those in need. I will start the challenge at 22:00 on 16th December and finish at 22:00 on 17th December, when my sister will finish one of her Samaritans shifts.

Every seven seconds, The Samaritans respond to a call for help. There is No judgement, No pressure and they are there for anyone who needs someone, no matter the issue. They are there to be the neutral outsider to just listen and be there for you during a time of need.

Their services include someone to talk to: On the phone, by email, by letter, finding a local branch or through self-help apps.

If you are feeling down, tired, emotional or just not enjoying what you usually do, these could be signs you are struggling to cope. You can visit this link to find a list of things to look out for in yourself
https://www.samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/if-youre-having-difficult-time/signs-you-may-be-struggling-cope/

The Samaritans not only offer support to those who are struggling, they offer great advice to those who are worried about someone else. Follow this link to know what to do if you think someone is not OK
https://www.samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/if-youre-worried-about-someone-else/

You can call The Samaritans anytime on 116123. I picked up the phone 7 years ago in a time of need. Call them. No matter how insignificant you think your issue might be to others, YOU matter.

Impact of donations
· £5 is the cost to answer a call for help
· £96 could train and support an existing volunteer for a year
· £200 could cover the cost of a new volunteer to build the skills they need to answer a call for help
· £500 could keep Samaritans' phone line open for one hour.


To donate and show support for my #TeamPurpleYOUR24 please head to my Justgiving page.

Thank you so much for your kind donations! Wish me luck.