🚨 Big changes brewing at Samaritans! 🚨
Volunteers are speaking out against plans to close over 100 branches across the UK, including some in rural Wales. Many feel there’s a “culture of fear” stifling their voices, especially after some directors were suspended for expressing concerns. 😟
One passionate volunteer shared, “In a charity focused on mental health, silencing voices is deeply concerning.” These planned closures could massively impact the charity’s ability to support those in crisis, as volunteers are the backbone of this essential service. If branches disappear, where will people turn?
In a recent survey, a whopping 74% of Welsh volunteers opposed relocating, and 75% weren’t keen on remote work. Their main worry? That shutting local branches means fewer people get the critical help they need.
There are also whispers that initiatives like “Our Farming Our Future,” vital for rural communities, might be under threat. This programme supports young farmers, a group currently facing rising suicide rates. Losing such initiatives would be a major blow, especially in areas already grappling with mental health issues.
The burning question remains: if these closures happen, will the savings benefit local communities or vanish into central funding?
Stay tuned for more updates as we keep an eye on this developing story. Your thoughts? 💬👇
#Samaritans #MentalHealth #CommunitySupport #Wales #UK