Background
Samaritans Awareness Day is held nationally on the 24th July on an annual basis.
It was founded by the Samaritans to “raise awareness, that Samaritans are here to listen to anyone who’s struggling to cope, at any time of the day or night. Whether it is a virtual chitchat, or a picnic in the park, “Talk to Us” is one of the ways we raise awareness that we’re here – for anyone who needs someone to listen, 24/7, without judgement or pressure.”
The hashtag which is being used this year is #WeListen. Samaritans state: “Samaritans are here to listen 24/7 for anyone that needs us. But we’re also encouraging people to become better listeners.”
How do I join in the 24/7 Samaritans – The Big Listen?
You can join in The Big Listen by:
- Pledge to become a better listener – According to the Samaritans: “Becoming a better listening can help you to support loved ones who may be struggling to cope. It can also help improve your relationships with family, friends and colleagues. You could help your loved ones open up about how they’re feeling by making some small changes to the way you listen.”
The Samaritans would like for you to pledge to become a better listener on social media such as Facebook or Twitter, they also have a page on their website which contains materials that you can use to post on your social media. If you would like to look at the materials and maybe use it for your pledge, then please visit https://www.samaritans.org/support-us/campaign/talk-us/downloadable-materials.
- Sharing on social media – by sharing this article and other articles and information which details about why The Big Listen is important and how important it is to reach out to your loved ones.
- Join one of the Samaritans events – Samaritans branches in the UK and Republic of Ireland hold local events to raise awareness that Samaritans are here to listen. If you would like to join one of the Samaritans events or you would like to search for your local Samaritans branch, then please go to www.samaritans.org/branches.
- Check in on your family and friends – By checking in on your family and friends, you can help them to open up about how they are feeling and then assist them with their worries.
If you or anyone you know are going through a rough time and don’t know who to talk to, or require support, then please call the Samaritans at 116 123, which is a free service. If you do not wish to speak to someone on the phone, then you can send an email to jo@samaritans.org.