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Following Government’s confirmation that Samaritans volunteers are critical to supporting vulnerable people, Hastings and Rother, Samaritans is making every effort to ensure that they are able to provide emotional support to anyone in crisis.

Volunteers that are able to carry out shifts at the branch in 26 St Andrew’s Square, Hastings, are following strict guidelines on hygiene standards and social distancing.

The situation will be continually monitored to ensure that volunteer safety is prioritised.

Evie, branch director at Hastings and Rother Samaritans, said: “For many years, our branch has provided a listening ear to anyone who needs support, which has been possible through the public’s kind donations.

“Now more than ever, we need the public’s continued support. Due to the cancellation of our upcoming fundraising events, we are facing a significant loss of funding, so we are calling on Hastings and Rother residents to help us ensure that we continue to be here for anyone

who needs support.”

A donation as little as £5 will help volunteers to answer a call for help from someone struggling to cope and be there when people need support the most.

Samaritans is also encouraging the public to have a virtual bake-off and cycling enthusiasts to clock up their miles and raise vital funds for Samaritans during the coronavirus lockdown.

To make a donation to the Hastings and Rother Samaritans, please visit this site

Those worried about their own mental health or someone else during the coronavirus outbreak can find some useful online resources and advice here on Samaritans website.

Anyone can contact Samaritans FREE any time from any phone on 116 123, even a mobile without credit. This number won’t show up on your phone bill. Or you can email [email protected] or visit www.samaritans.org.

Samaritans is a charity and it’s the public’s kind donations and more than 20,000 volunteers that mean we are always there for anyone struggling to cope.

Coronavirus: Hastings and Rother Samaritans launch an appeal for support