Samaritans Festival Branch volunteers are returning this year to provide a non-judgemental, face to face listening, emotional support service at the In It Together Festival in Margam, Port Talbot across the bank holiday weekend (23 – 27 May 2024).
Festival goers can discuss anything that’s getting them down, no matter how serious or how trivial and the conversation is completely confidential. Whether people feel suicidal or not, they will be given the opportunity to talk through whatever is on their mind with a non-judgemental volunteer who is trained to listen.
Samaritans Cymru have seen an increase in calls relating to finance or debt problems as well as a rise in first time callers surrounding these issues. This may increase the number of people needing support at events such as In It Together.
There are many reasons why people are having a tough time at festivals. Many are having a hard time at home and as much as they want to leave that at home and have a great time, they bring those problems with them. We see people of all different ages; younger people may be struggling with exam pressure or results and others may be struggling with relationships or money problems. We support people experiencing anxiety through to those who are having suicidal thoughts.
Dave Xerri, Deputy Director of Festival Branch and volunteer, shared some reflections on the reasons people may need support
Samaritans volunteers are experienced in listening to people with suicidal thoughts, feelings and plans and are there to support you:
- when you’re desperate or on edge, they can help you get through that moment
- they will help you make sense of what you’re feeling
- they can identify other forms of help if you think you want it.
We’re really proud to have Samaritans involved with our festival again this year and we want everyone in the In It Together community to know that Samaritans will be there for anyone having a tough time. They offer a totally confidential safe space and we believe that’s really important. We hope everyone has an amazing time, but we are also committed to your wellbeing and want you to know it’s OK to ask for help!
A spokesperson from In It Together Festival said in response to their thoughts on teaming up with Samaritans
Samaritans Cymru are urging anyone who’s struggling to cope to reach out to someone, whether that’s a friend, a colleague or a charity like Samaritans. They say that when you feel low, it can be hard to see beyond your current situation but talking to someone can help you find a way through.