Thank you to Daniel Blank for profiling a few of our Samaritans of Farnborough & District Volunteers on InYourArea, Farnborough News, Aldershot News and News & Mail!
“Our Outreach team helps build bridges to the local community, raising awareness of Samaritans of Farnborough & District as well as reaching out to people who may benefit from talking to us.”
Name: Christopher Wilson
Organisation: Samaritans of Farnborough & District
Town/village: Fleet, Hampshire
Fun fact about yourself: I like the smell of coffee, but can’t stand the taste, so never drink it
When and why did you start volunteering for Samaritans of Farnborough & District?
I started volunteering with Samaritans six years ago, when I retired from full time work. I had seen in my personal and business life what a difference Samaritans could make to people going through a whole range of emotional issues and felt it was an organisation I would enjoy contributing my time to.
Since joining I have also become friends with many of the volunteers in the branch and feel part of a special team.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a Samaritans of Farnborough & District volunteer?
I find the outreach activities in the branch the most rewarding. I lead the outreach team, where our initiatives are an extension to the service and helps us build bridges to the local community, raising awareness of Samaritans as well as reaching out to people who may benefit from talking to us.
Volunteers visit the Emergency Department at Frimley Hospital; we have strong links with local schools and colleges; support many events with the local military community; visit local homeless shelters; run a programme for local companies and work with local pubs to support those who need emotional support.
Why should others in the community volunteer for organisations like Samaritans of Farnborough & District?
If you care about the emotional health of others in the community and want to join an organisation that can make a difference then Samaritans might well be for you. You will be given fantastic training on how to listen to callers and help them decide how to move forward.
You would be joining a great community who help each other as well as our callers so you will never feel on your own.
If you are going through a tough time and need to talk to someone, Samaritans volunteers are available 24/7, 365 days a year. Call free on 116 123 or email [email protected].
Click here for details about outreach and volunteering.