Kentish Express Ashford & District
‘We will listen and help you find a way through’
Samaritans volunteers in Ashford and Tenterden are helping to promote the charity’s new ‘We Listen’ campaign, which lets people know that anyone can call Samaritans, whatever they’re going through.
A series of posters now being displayed in railway stations across the country contain hidden messages where people claiming to be fine are not OK at all.
One says: “I’m alright with being single I guess. It’s not ideal for the kids, but they seem to be coping’, the real message being, ‘I’m not coping’.”
Supported by Network Rail and the rail industry, the campaign aims to show that while it’s easy to hide your feelings, when someone really listens you’re more likely to open up and start working through your problems.
Samaritans say they are there for everyone and they don’t just hear you, they really listen.
Lesley Sutton the charity’s branch director for Ashford said: “Life’s pressures can build, without you even realising. It’s all too easy to turn away, ignore how you’re feeling, and put on a brave face.
“But you don’t have to do that with us. Samaritans volunteers make time for you and really listen to you, because simply being listened to can help you put into words what’s really going on in your life and help you find a way through.
“It might be the pressures of family, relationships, work, health, finances – or anything else. Talk to Samaritans for free from any phone, email us, text us or come into our branch at 22 Queen Street, Ashford and chat face to face.
“Whatever works best for you, we’ll listen and help you find a way through.”
Network Rail has been working with Samaritans to raise aware- ness of the charity’s emotional support services since 2010.
You can call Samaritans for free at any time from any phone on 116 123 (you don’t even need credit and this number won’t show up on your phone bill), email jo@samaritans.org, or visit samaritans.org to find details of your nearest branch.