Samaritans has received a £77,000 grant from Great Western Railway to support the charity’s life-saving work and mission to reduce the number of people who die by suicide and be there for anyone who is struggling, particularly over the festive period.

The charity will use the funding to recruit new volunteers and deliver events and activities in the local communities near twenty-three Samaritans branches to support the wellbeing of residents.

The funding comes at a crucial time, helping to ensure that Samaritans volunteers are on hand to provide emotional support throughout the festive season. Thirteen thousand listening volunteers at Samaritans branches across the UK and Ireland are expected to answer calls for help from people feeling overwhelmed this winter.

Last year, Samaritans volunteers responded to 244,254 calls in the UK and Ireland over the festive period.

Samaritans successfully applied for a grant from the train operator’s Community Fund, which was launched in May to support local communities and address areas of social need.

As part of GWR’s National Rail Contract with the Department for Transport, the train operator is committed to supporting schools, colleges, councils, community and other not-for-profit organisations by aiding a number of initiatives.

Samaritans’ activities will continue into next year, with talks at community groups, businesses, and local events, giving people useful tips on how to support a family member, friend or colleague who may be struggling and how to even help a stranger who might need help.