Figures reveal Samaritans had more than 17,000 cries for help

The Kirkcaldy branch of the Samaritans responded to more than 17,000 cries for help last year, new figures have revealed.

The 44 volunteers counselled people in need of support by phone, email and face-to-face.

Despite the lifeline, 52 people took their own lives in 2017 in Fife, where the suicide rate is above the Scottish average.

Volunteers also visited local schools and groups to raise awareness of positive emotional health and to talk about how the Samaritans are there for anyone in times of need.

Kirkcaldy Labour MP Lesley Laird visited the branch this week and called for more help.

“People in Fife need them – of that, there is no doubt,” she said.

“When people are at a point of desperation they know that, no matter what, they can pick up a phone and talk to a friendly, non-judgmental voice at the other end.

“More work urgently needs to be done to tackle the root causes of loneliness in society... but it’s a comfort to know the Samaritans are always on hand to listen.”

Jim Wood, director of Kirkcaldy Samaritans, said: “Political support, from MPs to councillors of all parties, is so important to ensure that local suicide prevention work receives the attention it needs.

“Every call to the Samaritans is important.

“Each one is an individual who is reaching out at a time when they most need to.

“We want to continue to be there for anyone at any point in their life.”

Anyone interested in becoming a volunteer can visit samaritans.org/volunteer and the Samaritans can be contacted free on 116 123.