The Horsham & Crawley branch of Samaritans were proud to be one of the first branches in the UK to move over to a new digital system to manage calls.
Volunteers worked behind the scenes to prepare for the switchover from the old analogue telephone system to a new digital system, which promises to offer a better sound quality and fewer dropped calls.
Analogue telephone systems will be turned off soon, so instead of calls coming through a copper wire, they will be transmitted over network of computers.
Volunteers log on using a computer at their Listening Station at the start of their duty. Once logged on, the next incoming call, (which can come from anywhere in the UK and Ireland) is routed to them through the PC. It’s the same as using FaceTime or being on a Zoom audio call.
There will be no difference for our callers other than improved audio quality.
I was really worried before my first shift, because new technology isn’t something I enjoy. The new system was very easy to use, I don’t know what the fuss was all about
Listening Volunteer
It was weird having no telephone but the quality of sound was very clear through my headset
Listening Volunteer
Samaritans can be contacted on 116 123 from any phone, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
An email service is available by emailing [email protected] or you can write to FREEPOST, Samaritans Letters.
An online webchat service is also available on selected days, see the Samaritans website for availability.