Samaritans to visit railway stations

DROGHEDA STATION TO BE PART OF OVERALL PROJECT ON FRIDAY

Drogheda & North East branch of Samaritans will have a physical presence at Drogheda Train Station on Friday, July 7 for a nationwide awareness campaign.

The event at MacBride Station is being held as part of a partnership between Irish Rail and the charity.

It will be replicated at train stations countrywide with other branches of Samaritans also taking part on dates of their own choosing.

A team of volunteers representing the Drogheda & North East branch of Samaritans will man a stand from 7.30am until approximately 5.30pm on July 7. They will be handing out Samaritans literature including wristbands and pens and will be on hand to discuss the branch’s work with commuters.

The inaugural event, held at Drogheda Train Station in 2015, proved to be a big success, and the branch is hoping to connect with even more people this year.

Marie McCormack, Director of Drogheda & North East branch of Samaritans, said the local branch is delighted to be involved in this national initiative again this year.

‘Our aim is engage with as many people as possible on the day and inform them of the vital service we provide in the community,’ said Ms McCormack.

‘We want to inform commuters that we are available 24-7, and to relay this information to their families and friends.’

Ms McCormack said the branch is very grateful to Irish Rail for giving them the opportunity, and in particular, management at Drogheda Train Station.

‘Our team of dedicated volunteers is looking forward to chatting to commuters outside the station and getting our message across to as wide a reach as possible,’ she added.

Drogheda & North East Branch of Samaritans, which serves counties Louth, Meath, Cavan and Monaghan, is led by a team of approximately 100 volunteers.

In 2016, the branch had its busiest year to date, answering a total of 29,155 calls for help, an increase of more than 3,000 on the previous 12 months.

Samaritans can be contacted on Freecall 116 123, by text 087-2609090 or by email at jo@samaritans.org