Ever wondered what it's like to be a Samaritan? In this series we will be showcasing volunteers stories, why they became Samaritans and what it's like to be a volunteer with us.
I'm a new listening volunteer, still a probationer. It has been a long journey for me to get to this point. I'm 62 so I guess I have a fair amount of life experience (good and bad) behind me. This is what has influenced me to help others.
I began working in the Samaritans shop when it opened in November 2012. I was newly retired and looking for a different kind of experience. I also wanted to push my boundaries after some personal life changing events.
I always had it in mind that I may one day try my hand at becoming a listening volunteer
Rita, Shop and Listening Volunteer
I always had it in my mind that I may one day try my hand at becoming a listening volunteer but for the first year or so I was quite happy working in the shop, meeting new people. I loved it and felt I was making a difference. It sounds rather altruistic and selfless but it actually helped me too. My confidence and self-worth increased, partly, I think, because I wasn't focussing on myself and my problems all the time!
The turning point for me to decide to become a listening volunteer was when I attended the Regional Conference a couple of years ago. The speakers were inspirational. I was particularly affected by the talk given by Richard McCann, son of the first Ripper victim. Apart from this I enjoyed the social aspect of the weekend, meeting other volunteers from all ages and walks of life and hearing their stories.
I would encourage anyone who feels they can help to become involved with the Samaritans. There are many ways to do this; the listening side isn't for everyone. Important too is the social side to it all, the camaraderie, the feeling of belonging, the diversity of volunteers with their humour and dedication. It has certainly added another dimension to my life.
The feeling of belonging, the diversity of volunteers with their humour and dedication. It has certainly added another dimension to my life.
Rita, Shop and Listening Volunteer
