Samaritans Get Smart

Volunteers to tour country to raise awareness

Samaritans volunteers from Ealing, Hammersmith & Hounslow are gearing up to make this year’s 24:7 national awareness campaign the best yet with the first-ever national Smart Car tour.

Motoring through England, Scotland and Wales, the iconic green Smart Car will zoom into action on Saturday 10 July and will be on the road until Saturday 24 July when it reaches its final destination in Birmingham.

Visiting over 175 Samaritans branches across the three nations and covering almost 5,000 miles during its two-week tour, the car will be driven by local MPs, mayors, celebrity supporters and Samaritans volunteers.

The car will take to the roads day and night, raising awareness of Samaritans’ 24:7 service for people in emotional distress and those at risk of suicide.

Arriving at the Ealing branch, 26 Junction Road, London, W5 4XL, on Friday 23 July at 19.30 the car will be welcomed by local supporters. After a quick pit stop for refreshments, the car will continue its journey, piloted by a local Ealing volunteer.

“Saturday 24 July – 24/7 – is the perfect day to raise awareness of Samaritans’ round-the-clock availability,” said John Royle, Ealing Branch Director. “I hope that our local events this year will give people a greater understanding of the work we do and encourage them to support us. Whether donating money, or giving their time as a volunteer, we appreciate everyone who helps us realise our goal of providing a 24:7 service for people in distress and despair.”

Volunteers at Ealing are working hard to raise money for this year's 24:7. The campaign will be recognised locally with collections at west London tube stations in the morning and evening of Friday 23 July, as well as the welcoming party for the Samaritans Smart Car.

“We welcome anyone who would like to volunteer, or know more about Ealing Samaritans and the many volunteer roles available, to visit the branch for our event on Friday 23 July, or speak to one of our tube station collectors,” John Royle concluded. “We hope to make this year’s 24:7 the best ever!”

Visit Samaritans’ interactive 24:7 map for information about the Smart Car tour and other events in your area: www.samaritans247.org

14 July 2010