256 - New projector for Sheffield Samaritans - June 2026

One of our long standing members wrote to us asking if we could help the Sheffield Samaritans. After training to become a listening volunteer, she has also joined the training team and seen first hand how little funding they have, making it hard to invest in equipment they need. Sheffield Samaritans has provided confidential emotional support, by telephone, face-to-face, email and letter since 1965. They provide support 365 days a year, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week by volunteers. They enable people in Sheffield and the surrounding area who are experiencing feelings of distress or despair, including those who may be at risk of suicide, to receive confidential telephone, email and face-to-face support at any time of the day or night, in order to improve their mental health and to reduce the incidence of suicide. They promote a better understanding in society of suicide, suicidal behaviour and the value of expressing feelings which may otherwise lead to suicide or impaired emotional health. Their outreach work is conducted in school, colleges and community environments where they are able to connect directly with those in need of assistance after a tragic or sudden death event or as an addition to statutory requirements. They collaborate with and support other charities and not for profit organisations locally. Sheffield Samaritans receive no local or national government funding, relying on donations, which as so many charities are finding, is on the decline. They were in desperate need of a new training room projector for delivery of training to new and current volunteers and asked if that would be something we could help with. We were very happy to help and sent £500 which allowed them to get the equipment, together with installation, in time for the next training course, which is excellent news. It really is a pleasure to be able to help such an extraordinary organisation and we are grateful to our member and all the incredible volunteers who must make such a difference to the people they support.