THE Clare branch of the Samaritans are about to begin their 2014 recruitment drive, with three information selection events taking place next week.
The first will be held next Tuesday night, at 7.30pm, in the Shannon College of Hotel Management. The second is on Thursday, January 23 at 7.30pm in the Temple Gate Hotel in Ennis, while the third is at the same venue on Saturday, January 25 at 11am.
Samaritans volunteers come from a wide variety of age groups and backgrounds and more information on what is involved in volunteering will be made available.
The Samaritans provide confidential, emotional support to people experiencing feelings of distress or despair, including feelings that may lead to suicide. They are available 24/7, 365 days a year.
In Clare they are based on the Kilrush Road, Ennis and have had a presence in the Banner County since the early 1980s.
All who do go on to become Samaritans volunteers will take part in a comprehensive training programme, which will equip them with the skills required.
For further information on volunteering with the Samaritans call 065 6840808 or email office.ennis@samaritans.ie.
Owen Ryan has been a journalist with the Clare Champion since 2007, having previously worked with a number of other publications in Limerick, Cork and Galway. His first book will be published in December 2024.