Questions & Answers?

What happens when I contact Samaritans?

A trained Samaritans volunteer will answer and give you the chance to talk about what’s happening in your life and how that is affecting you. Samaritans volunteers are trained in many of the same techniques as professional counsellors, but they won’t judge you or tell you what to do.

By listening and asking questions, the volunteer will help you explore your feelings and work out the way forward. The volunteer will often ask if you are feeling suicidal. This doesn’t mean that you must be suicidal to contact us but we always ask because it can be a huge relief for someone to admit how bad they are really feeling.

Do you give advice?

Our volunteers don’t offer advice, because what works for one person might not work for you. But we believe that given the time and space to talk through problems or difficulties in confidence, everyone can find an inner strength that lets them find their own way forward.

Will you tell anyone about me?

We'll listen to how you feel, no matter what the reason is. We won't tell you what to do and we won't tell anyone about you or your call unless that is what you want. You don't even have to tell us your name.

I'm short of credit on my phone - can you call me?

We will be happy to call you back if you are willing to give us your phone number.

Do I need to make an appointment to see a Samaritans' volunteer in person?

Cheltenham Samaritans offers a drop-in service for people who want to speak to one of its volunteers face to face in a quiet, private space. You don’t need to make an appointment, but it can be helpful to let us know you are coming in advance, by phoning 01242 515777 (please check you are through to Cheltenham branch as calls get diverted to other branches when we are busy). In this way we can try to make sure a volunteer is available to see you when you arrive.