Samaritans (charity)

The Samaritans is a charity in the United Kingdom and Ireland. They are a support group for those at risk of suicide. 

 History 
The Samaritans, was founded on November 5, 1953 by Chad Varah, a vicar. He started as a man "willing to listen". His approach was considered controversial at the time. "Everyone thought suicidal people were mad," he said. "But they just needed to be listened to." Today there are over 21,000 volunteers in 201 locations. Varah retired from the Samaritans in 1986.

 Services 
A large amount of Samaritans' work is a telephone hotline, which is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. They also offer a drop-in service for face-to-face discussion. Samaritans also offer confidential Email support. The Samaritans volunteers are trained in counselling skills, so they do not judge people.

 Confidentiality 
Samaritans have a strict code of confidentiality, even after the death of a caller. Unless the caller gives consent to pass on information, it will be broken only in rare circumstances.

 International reach 
Through its email service, Samaritans' work has extended well beyond the UK and Ireland, and Australia as messages are received from all around the world.

 References 

Category:Charities of the United Kingdom
Category:Suicide
Category:Medical and health organisations in the United Kingdom
Category:1953 establishments in Europe
Category:1950s establishments in the United Kingdom