Crabb Opens Refurbished County Samaritans HQ

Stephen Crabb MP at the opening of the new Samaritan centre in Milford Haven.

 

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ORR

April 10, 2008

Stephen Crabb, Member of Parliament for Preseli Pembrokeshire, recently unveiled a plaque to mark the opening of the refurbished Samaritans centre in Haverfordwest.

The centre had almost been shut down last year by the Fire Safety Officer before receiving a generous legacy which helped to finance the necessary improvements.

Speaking at the event Stephen highlighted the important work that the Samaritans carry out on a day to day basis.

The national organisation, which is staffed mainly by volunteers, provides twenty-four-hour emotional support to people of all ages and from all walks of life. It was first established by Chad Varah in London in 1953 but has since grown to help nearly 5 million people every year across the country.

The Samaritans have had a presence in Pembrokeshire since the 1960s although this was recently threatened by ageing facilities which did not comply with health and safety and fire regulations. It is very fortunate that the recent donation has ensured that the Samaritans can continue to help those in need in the County.

At the event, Stephen thanked the volunteers and Trustees of the Samaritans in Pembrokeshire for the service they provide and highlighted the importance of there being a 24 hour crisis support helpline for people who find themselves struggling with feelings of desperation or hopelessness.

“The kinds of issues affecting those who find themselves calling on the Samaritans for help are issues which can hit any of us at any point in our lives,” said Stephen.

“It may be the breakdown of a relationship or the death of a family member or the crisis of financial debt which triggers feelings of despondency. Thankfully the Samaritans provide a permanent place to turn for help and support. The importance of their work cannot be over-stated.

“I can only encourage more people to get involved. The quality of the training provided by the Samaritans to volunteers is widely recognised as outstanding and helps explain why the Samaritans remain such an effective organisation.”

The Samaritans currently have around 35 volunteers in Pembrokeshire but they are always looking to encourage new people to apply to join the organisation.

For more information on the work of the Samaritans in Pembrokeshire please contact 01437 766699.