Volunteers sought to help provide vital support in Moray


A charity providing help and support for anyone who is experiencing feelings of distress and despair is currently seeking to recruit new volunteers.

The Elgin branch of Samaritans are looking for people who feel that they are able to provide confidential emotional support.

No previous experience is required as full training and support will be provided to suitable volunteers, who would carry out support duties at the Elgin branch of the charity.

Volunteers are being sought from throughout Moray and those who successfully take up duties with Samaritans are able to claim travel expenses.

Samaritans volunteers help to meet the vision of the organisation to alleviate emotional stress that could lead to suicide. All volunteers are committed to the values of listening and alleviating distress, helping people to better understand their position and the options open to them.

A spokeswoman for the Elgin branch of Samaritans told insideMoray: “As a guide, we ask our volunteers for three to four hours each week which includes a late-night duty approximately once a month.

“However, we’re aware that our volunteers all have different responsibilities and pressures, so we’ll always do our best to work with volunteers to make arrangements which benefit both the branch and individual.”

Potential volunteers are being asked to call 01343 543000 or drop a letter with their contact details to Elgin Samaritans at 21 Greyfriars Street.

Further information can also be found on the Elgin Samaritans website – http://www.samaritans.org/branches/elgin-samaritans

The spokeswoman added: “Further information will be sent out to each prospective volunteer which will include an invitation to a selection event where they can find out more about what’s involved, and that may lead to an interview.

“On completion of the selection process, each successful prospective volunteer will be required to attend training.

“Given the sensitive nature of our service, the initial training consists of eight sessions each lasting three hours and runs over a period of six to eight weeks.

“So long as we have sufficient numbers, the next block of session should begin at the end of September or early October.”

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