Sheffield Samaritans gear up for busy time of year

The charity answered 5.3 million calls last year.

Sandra Waters, director of the Sheffield branch, said: “For many the holiday period can be a thoroughly enjoyable time but, sadly, as our research shows, for a startling amount of people this is not always the case.

“This time of year can bring up painful memories, or worsen difficult feelings often related to family or relationship issues, financial or health worries, to name just a few.

“The pressure to be having a good time or comparing your life with someone else’s can be too much, leaving many feeling they have no one to turn to.”

“The important thing to remember is that no one needs to feel alone this Christmas – Samaritans volunteers are there to listen round the clock, every day of the year. We don’t judge and we don’t share what we’re told, we’re simply there to listen, provide emotional support and help people find a way through whatever’s getting to them.”

Call 116123 or 0114 2767277.