Giles Watling, MP for Clacton, has recently met with Colchester Samaritans in Clacton to discuss, and raise awareness of, their important work.
During his visit, Giles heard how the Samaritans, and their 'Sam’s Van', park in Clacton Square for the first three Thursdays of every month between 10:00am and 12:00am. This ‘pop up’ Samaritans branch has been adapted to accommodate a listening area in which local people can talk to a trained Samaritan about whatever is bothering them.
Colchester Samaritans, known formally as the Samaritans of Colchester, Tendring and Suffolk Borders, serve the entirety of the 'CO' postcode area, and have around 125 listening and support volunteers. Based at Walsingham Road Community Hall, Colchester, CO2 7BN, they responded to over 30,000 contacts from callers last year.
A representative from Colchester Samaritans said:
“I would like to thank Giles for meeting with us. He spoke to us at length about the needs of the local community and observed local residents talking to volunteers both inside and outside the van.”
Giles said:
“I was pleased to join the local Samaritans in Clacton. They are a devoted group who do so much to help people, and I know that they are keen to point out that they are here to listen. If you have any issues or concerns, please do contact them because I know that they can be of assistance.”