With Christmas upon us, and New Year approaching, Dundee FC Supporters’ Society welcomes The Samaritans to Dens Park for the visit of Celtic. The Samaritans, like Dundee FC are celebrating a 50th anniversary this year; the Dundee Samaritans began in 1962.
The Samaritans were originally founded in 1953, and are now contacted over 5 million times a year, by telephone, text or email, and face to face. With over 18,000 volunteers, and over 200 branches in the UK and Ireland, Samaritan volunteers are there to support anyone feeling down, depressed or struggling to cope offering a confidential service where people can speak freely without fear of being judged.
Samaritans’ vision is that fewer people die by suicide. We make it our mission to alleviate emotional distress and reduce the incidence of suicidal feelings and suicidal behaviour by being available 24 hours a day to provide emotional support by reaching out to high risk groups and communities; by working in partnership with other organisations, agencies and experts; and by raising awareness and influencing public policy.
Maggie Brown of Dundee Samaritans explained a bit about the service they provide. ‘Samaritans’ vision is that fewer people die by suicide. We make it our mission to alleviate emotional distress and reduce the incidence of suicidal feelings and suicidal behaviour by being available 24 hours a day to provide emotional support by reaching out to high risk groups and communities; by working in partnership with other organisations, agencies and experts; and by raising awareness and influencing public policy.’
‘We find that people will often talk to us about things that they might not share with anyone else, including suicidal feelings. For some people, talking to Samaritans is the first step in dealing with the worries they face. This can help them to develop the strength and confidence to talk more with others.’
‘Dundee branch of Samaritans celebrated their 50th anniversary this year. Esther, our longest serving volunteer with over 30 years service to Dundee Samaritans, cut the celebration cake.
Situated in purpose built premises, our band of 61 volunteers are there to answer your telephone calls, emails and text messages day and night, 365 days per year. Samaritans never sleep – when you need us, we will be there for you. Fancy a confidential chat over a cup of tea? We do that too.’
Dundee Samaritans also regularly organise social occasions, with theatre trips, coffee mornings, quiz nights and informal get-togethers.
Dundee Samaritans are looking for volunteers, and, if anyone believes this is something they would be interested in, encourage people to get in touch. Training is provided, and to get in touch, please contact Samaritans of Dundee, 6 Old Glamis Road, Dundee, DD3 8HP Tel: 01382 832555. Prospective volunteers can also make contact via email at dundee.samaritans@hotmail.co.uk
Community Director Jacqui Robertson welcomes Dundee Samaritans to Dens, and explains why this charity is so important. ‘Having the Samaritans as this weekend's hosted charity is quite apt, as Christmas can be a difficult time of year for some and a hard subject to discuss. Not only that, but locally in Dundee, there was a terribly sad spate of suicides in our young male population. The Samaritans, a long standing supportive charity can help. Picking up the phone can be tough too but that little step can make a big difference. I hope that our fans take notice of this important message today - it might help you or someone you know.’
Dundee FC Supporters’ Society would like to welcome Dundee Samaritans to Dens, and encourage our fans to take time out during the festive season to talk to them before the game. The Samaritans do very important work, and especially at this time of year, would encourage anyone who feels the need to contact them.