Worthing Samaritans annual review reveals plans to shape a new vision for the branch

In the charity's annual review for 2022, director Fiona Cameron emphasises that she will be listening to volunteers to hear what they think is important for the future of the branch.

Findings of a survey conducted among members made it clear the branch needed to improve and modernise the working space for volunteers in Lennox Road. The branch was closed for more than six weeks from June to August while improvements were carried out.

Major repairs to the roof were needed during the past year to cure damp in many rooms and this was completed at a cost of £4,300. The property had not been updated for almost 20 years and trustees and the leadership team agreed a total budget of £22,000 to make it more a welcoming and attractive place for volunteers.

Fiona, who has been a member of Worthing branch for 12 years, said: "Since March 2020, it has been a difficult time for many of us, presenting obstacles and challenges both personally and as volunteers. However, now feels like the right time to look to the future and start to shape a new vision for the branch as we move forward.

"I am keen to understand what is important to our volunteers, as well as the needs of the branch over the coming months. This will help us to develop our strategy, in line with the national strategy, and work on a plan to deliver it together.

"There will be some quick wins I am sure, and some initiatives that will take longer to shape. We will need to focus on what we want to achieve and I have no doubt, as a team, we will get there. I believe in listening first and foremost, and the values of honesty, respect and integrity.

"Collaboration is key to success and nurturing a culture that allows people to bring their whole selves to the branch and to participate in evolving our branch vision. Finally, transparency and clear communication is of paramount importance to me. I look forward to seeing what we can achieve together."

Listeners manning telephones is a popular image of the Samaritans but it is not the whole picture. Outreach is one vital activity of the Worthing branch to publicise its work.

The team has been very active in the past year, providing a presence at many local events and establishing a new railways team to work with National Rail. The team has made fantastic connections with station managers, British Transport Police and railway enforcement officers.

Volunteers organised Brew Monday in January at Barnham and more recently at Lancing. There will also be a team at Worthing Railway Station on Thursday, October 13, from 7.30am to 9.45am to mark World Mental Health Day by talking to travellers and reminding them Samaritans is there to listen 24/7.

East Worthing and Shoreham MP Tim Loughton will be joining the team to support the volunteers’ efforts to raise awareness of the theme Make Mental Health and Wellbeing for all a Global Priority.

Fiona said: “Our volunteers at Worthing are really looking forward to being out and about in the community, providing a listening ear. We know how challenging these past few years have been for people and support is needed now, more than ever. Many people struggle to cope at one point or another in their lives. So, it’s important to recognise that reaching out to someone will help them see that someone cares and that they are valued. No matter how big or small your problems feel, it is important to remember that you are not alone.”

To find out more about Worthing Samaritans, or to make a donation and find out other ways you can support us, visit www.samaritans.org/worthing

Anyone can contact Samaritans, free, 24/7, 365 days a year. If you are going through a tough time, you can call 116 123, email [email protected] or visit www.samaritans.org