PRESS RELEASE

Cheltenham Samaritans named as Mayor of Cheltenham's Charity.

20 May 2009

Cheltenham Samaritans has been named as one of the new Mayor of Cheltenham’s charities for his year in office.

Councillor Lloyd Surgenor announced his choice of charities at the Mayor making ceremony which took place at Cheltenham Town Hall on Tuesday 19th May.

“We are absolutely delighted to have the support of Councillor Surgenor during his time as mayor” said Graham Tandy, Publicity Officer at Cheltenham Samaritans.

“It is a truly an honour to be chosen as one of the Mayor of Cheltenham's charities. As an organisation that has supported the desperate and suicidal in the Cheltenham district for over 45 years we are really delighted to have had our work recognised by the new Mayor” said Graham.

Cheltenham & District Samaritans is a local charity, founded in 1963, that offers emotional support to anyone in a crisis, who feels distressed or is perhaps thinking of taking their own life.
Volunteers provide  support by responding to phone calls, emails and texts as well as receiving callers in the branch for face to face meetings. Samaritans give those who call time and space to express their feelings, to help them to explore their options and perhaps seek a way to face the future. Callers are listened to with an open mind and accepted without prejudice, in a totally confidential manner.

Cynthia Pearce, Director of the Cheltenham branch, said “Samaritans’ vision is of a world in which fewer people die by suicide and its service is available day and night throughout the year, including Christmas Day. This service is entirely dependent on voluntary support and in 2008 the Cheltenham branch responded to over 40,000 callers. These callers come from all walks of life and of all ages, from primary school children upwards and I am sure they will benefit as a result of the new mayor's support."

Anyone needing the support of Samaritans, in the Cheltenham area, can get emotional support by phoning 01242 515 777, emailing jo@samaritans.org or visiting the branch in Back Albert Place.

For further details contact:

Graham Tandy
Publicity Officer
Cheltenham Samaritans
Victoria House
Back Albert Place
Cheltenham
GL52 2HN

Phone: 01242 515 777 (branch line) or 07777 683 448 (mobile)

Branch website: www.cheltenhamsamaritans.org
National website: www.samaritans.org