23/07/2010

Robin Walker MP recently visited the office of the Samaritans in Worcester to support their fundraising and recruitment campaigns and find out more about the work of this organisation in Worcester.

He met with volunteers and heard about the extensive training that they undergo to provide counsel and support to people experiencing distress or despair. He was shown around the centre, just around the corner from the Conservative Association offices on Sansome Walk, by outgoing Director Shirley Sholl who explained to him that Samaritans' volunteers work around the clock to provide a 24 hour service to those that need it. He also met with the longstanding chairman of the local branch, Jill

On Saturday Robin joined the Mayor of Worcester Cllr Mike Layland, in welcoming the Samaritans to the Guildhall and supporting their fundraising coffee morning there. He met with the incoming Director of the Worcester centre and discussed how their voluntary work fits in with the government's vision for the Big Society.

Robin said

"Voluntary organisations do such a huge amount for people in Worcester and I am always in awe of those who give up their time freely to do so much good. It was a pleasure to visit an organisation that has been a neighbour for many years but about which I knew very little and to find out a little more about what they do. We are so lucky in Worcester to have a strong voluntary sector and a beautiful Guildhall in which they can showcase their work, I am delighted to be able to do my small bit to support both the volunteers and their long-running civic relationships with Worcester."

For information about volunteering with the Samaritans see:

http://www.worcestersamaritans.org.uk/volunteer.htm