Outreach volunteers provided a safe space for visitors at Crawley Pride Event
Outreach Volunteers for the Horsham and Crawley branch of Samaritans attended the LGBTIQ+ Pride event in Goffs Park, Crawley, on Saturday 17th August, 2024, providing information on the core services provided by Samaritans, a chill out area where visitors were invited to draw and a photo board that visitors signed throughout the day.
A family event
The event was visited by many families and the atmosphere was upbeat with live music and some outrageously camp drag outfits.
Samaritans volunteers worked in shifts and were available to talk to visitors about the services provided such as the 24 hour free telephone helpline, online chat, email and letter writing services. In addition to this they provided a safe zone with facilities for anyone to talk, in complete confidence, about anything on their mind.
The sit and draw space was popular with visitors of all ages and some amazing photos were taken at the Drag Queen photo board.
Sit and Draw space
The photo board attracted lots of visitors
Our goal is to engage with the community on a personal level, offering face-to-face support outside of the branch. Through these efforts, we aim to strengthen our presence and make a tangible difference in the lives of those we serve, a positive experience for both our callers and volunteers.
Lulu and Kirsty, Deputy Directors with responsibility for outreach