Town House goes green for Samaritans
45th anniversary
The Samaritans of Lanarkshire celebrated their 45th birthday at the weekend.
To mark the event, South Lanarkshire Council lit up Hamilton Town House green in honour of the organisation.
It was in November 1972 that The Samaritans opened their doors for the first time in Hamilton.
Initially, they opened up to provide a space for locals to talk about what was troubling them.
The Samaritans began as a telephone helpline for people who were suicidal – nowadays they listen to people worried about finances, relationships, employment, physical or mental health concerns.
Hamilton has around 50 volunteers, but with suicide being the biggest cause of death in men under 50, and young people between 16 and 34, the service is more relevant than ever.
Debbie, the service’s branch director, said: “We are so proud to be part of this amazing organisation.
“Our longest-serving volunteer has been with us since the very beginning in 1972, which demonstrates how passionate our volunteers are about the vital work we do.”
The branch is always keen to hear from anyone who would like to become involved, whether as a listening volunteer, helping with fundraising, outreach or other important support functions.
Anyone can contact The Samaritans. Whatever you’re going through, call for free any time from any phone on 116 123 (this number is free to call and will not appear on your phone bill), email jo@samaritans.org, or visit www.samaritans.org to find details of your nearest branch.
Pictured from left to right are Samaritans Roseann, Sally, Vicky, Paul and Debbie outside Hamilton Town House on Friday evening for the anniversary event.