Talk to Us

July is the Samaritans ‘Talk to Us’ month, an awareness-raising campaign designed to encourage people to get chatting about how they are really feeling, whether that be with a work colleague, friend, family member, or a Samaritans volunteer. Talking is often the best way to start feeling better – not only does it provide connection, comfort and understanding, but also prevents feelings of loneliness and isolation

THE SAMARITANS REMIND EVERYONE THAT THEY ARE THERE IF ANYONE NEEDS SOMEONE TO LISTEN, 24/7.?In 2021 Samaritans volunteers spent over one million hours responding to calls for help.

Life is unpredictable and sometimes challenges can come up that make people feel like they have no one to talk to. Whether financial stress, issues between colleagues or feeling overwhelmed, everyone will struggle with challenges and so it is important to remember you are not alone. Talk to Us month is about encouraging everyone to speak up when they are struggling and to help realise that you do not need to suffer in silence. Charities such as the Samaritans are here to provide an ear for those who need to share their troubles and give the emotional support you need.

No matter how well people wear a professional mask, any number of problems can cause stress that affect both personal and work life. Creating a working environment where employees feel comfortable to voice their concerns with peers and managers benefits performance and productivity for both the individual and your organisation.

• Ask employees what they need?– Everyone may have requests as unique as their problems, and you may not be able to accommodate all of them, but the simple act of asking shows you are paying attention to these topics and want to make positive changes.
• Create routes for feedback?– You create feedback loops where your teams can interact, problem solve and engage on issues that affect both individuals and the wider organisation.
• Allow people time to process?–?Whether it’s feedback about their performance or celebrating a successful achievement, resist pressure and allow time for reflection.
• Acknowledge and follow up?–?Make sure to follow up with any complaint or reports that are made in order to build trust between employer and employee and maintain a supportive, positive workplace culture. Ensure your employees know they are being heard.

Samaritans provide 24-hour support through calls, email and even a self-help app. The service is confidential and anonymous and is available for anyone whatever your circumstances . This service is great for those who feel they have no one to talk to about personal matters and can be a stress relief during difficult times, with the addition of being completely free.

VISIT THEIR WEBSITE FOR MORE DETAILS.

www.samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/contact-samaritan/?