Priority 2: Reach

Our challenge

We are not yet good enough at reaching people whose circumstances mean they might have a higher risk of suicide, such as those living in deprivation or who are marginalised.

Our ambition

To be more visible and relevant, particularly to a more diverse range of people and communities, so those who might need us most trust us and know we are here for them.

We will actively go out into a more diverse range of communities so that the people who need us most see us, trust us, and know we are here for them. We will do this together with the most relevant people, organisations, and industries, as well as strengthening our existing work within local communities.

Samaritans Ireland objectives:

1. Reduce the impact of self-harm and suicide in Ireland with particular focus on priority groups identified within our national strategies to reduce suicide, Connecting for Life in Ireland and Protect Life 2 in Northern Ireland, for example, middle-aged men, members of the Traveller Community and other minority groups, those who have engaged in repeated acts of self-harm, etc.
2. Address suicide and self-harm in the criminal justice system, with a particular emphasis on supporting and developing the Listener scheme.
3. Raise awareness of Samaritans and our work across the island of Ireland so that people who may need our service know how to access it and are able to do so.
4. As part of the wider SCC review on Samaritans working with young people, review Samaritans Ireland work in second and third level education, and decide what level and scope of involvement is appropriate.
5. Identify potential partners with whom we can achieve 1), 2), 3) and 4) above.
6. Develop an Employer Scheme ‘business case’ to promote our work with employers in relation to the mental health and wellbeing of their staff and customers.
7. Promote and develop the role and work of Festival branch across the island of Ireland