Could you be a Samaritan Volunteer?

Every two minutes someone in the UK attempts suicide, every two hours someone succeeds in taking their own life. You could help make a difference.

Central London Samaritans are looking for volunteers to support our callers. You don't need formal qualifications or previous experience, but a natural ability to listen and remain open minded are essential skills. We are looking for people who can empathise with our callers and be caring and understanding of their situation.

Samaritan volunteers are ordinary people. We come from all walks of life, all backgrounds and all cultures, but we have one thing in common. We are all very good listeners. We welcome people of all ages over 18.

What will you get out of volunteering?

Many of our volunteers say that it is the most rewarding thing they have ever done. All volunteers receive full, comprehensive training to become a Samaritan. You can enhance your natural ability to listen and learn to support people who are going through a crisis and may be suicidal. You will learn how to offer support to people over the phone, face to face and by email and learn more about all aspects of the work we do.

Most importantly, if you become a volunteer, you'll be there to support people who really need someone to talk to.

“Talking so openly to just one person, giving them a bit of time to themselves, perhaps being able to help if only a little, it feels so very special - a real privilege."
Mark - a volunteer at Central London Samaritans

Volunteer commitment

Volunteers are normally required to do one day shift or one evening shift every two weeks. You will also be required for one night shift every four weeks. You will be asked to commit to roughly 15 hours a month. We have a range of shifts to choose from, making it easy to manage your commitment around your lifestyle.

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