Dublin Samaritans mark 24/7 awareness day at Mansion House

Dublin Samaritans is excited to announce its plans for its National Awareness Day, today, July 24th 2024.

Samaritans’ 24/7 Day on 24th July is marked to remind people that there is always an empathetic and non-judgemental listening ear on free phone 116 123 available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, every day of the year.

Calls are free, even from a mobile with no credit and the call will not appear on a telephone bill.

Dublin Samaritans is the only 24/7/365  emotional support helpline that covers the island of Ireland. The volunteer-run listening service provides a lifeline to thousands of people in Ireland each year. When other services close for the evening or weekend, Dublin Samaritans continue to offer their support. 4,800 calls were diverted from partner organisations to Dublin Samaritans when their services were closed in 2023 according to the latest impact report*.

The most common issues mentioned by callers included mental health, loneliness, family problems, relationship issues and thoughts of suicide. The latest impact report* showed that Samaritans answer a call for help every 60 seconds in Ireland.

Mary McMahon, Director of Dublin Samaritans has been a volunteer with the organisation for over 20 years. The loss of a friend in her teens led her to volunteer with the service.

Mary explains, “Samaritans volunteers train for months to gain the skills, particularly ‘active listening’ to become an empathetic listening ear for people in distress. We will never judge anyone, give advice or tell people what to do. We simply listen and help callers move past how they feel in the moment.

We have heard every problem imaginable. We hope through our activities today, more people understand whatever they are struggling with, support is always available on freephone 116 123.”

The meeting at the steps of the Mansion House features the Dublin Samaritans’ restored antique phone box, serves as vivid reminder of the helpline phone number 116 123. Paul Murphy AKA the Phonebox Man is a former service user. In a full-circle moment, Paul now helps Dublin Samaritans with his restored antique phone boxes at events.

Paul said, “I had a successful career in electronic security spanned over 30 years, but I struggled with depression, anxiety, and alcohol.

I had called the Samaritans a number of years earlier in my life when I was at a low ebb. Suffice it to say, I was in trouble and I needed help. The Samaritans were a great support during that difficult time.

After my father passed away in 2012, I became sober and focused on restoring an old phone box, which led to a new passion. This project boosted my confidence and led me to work in antiques. By 2021, I started my business, Phonebox Man, and I relish the opportunity to collaborate with Dublin Samaritans for their awareness campaign.

It’s lovely that the Dublin Samaritans have come to me for help with the phone box, and I was able to give it back to them.”

A lunchtime concert followed, with a performance by the 25-plus members of the Snugs Ukulele Group at the iconic bandstand in St Stephen’s Green, having reopened to the public in December following refurbishment.

Throughout the day, volunteers will continue promoting awareness of the 24/7 emotional support line 116 123 at various locations, including Stephens Green Shopping Centre and the Square in Canal Dock. The charity has joined forces with Insomnia Cafes to collaborate with over 40 stores in Co. Dublin to spotlight the support available through Dublin Samaritans.

Volunteer Olwyn Greene, Director of Outreach for Dublin Samaritans, commented, “This marks the 4th consecutive year of support from Dublin Insomnia cafes. We’re so grateful. Anyone visiting Insomnia cafes throughout the county will be reminded that Dublin Samaritans is always here to listen. They won’t be judged and the call will be completely anonymous. It’s a wonderful opportunity to connect with thousands of people who will visit Insomnia today.”

Events are taking place nationwide in Samaritans’ branches in every county. For more information about Samaritans National Awareness Day, please visit www.samaritans.ie/dublin. Dublin Samaritans are available 24/7 on 116 123 or via email [email protected]