Worthing Samaritans Celebrate Year Of Community Support

Worthing Samaritans have released their Annual Review for 2024/2025 – and it highlights a year of extraordinary dedication from volunteers who’ve been a steady, compassionate presence across the town.

Following several difficult moments for the community, trained Samaritans volunteers were out in Worthing town centre and at local railway stations, offering a friendly face and a listening ear to anyone who needed it.

Their visibility has become an important part of local life, with volunteers regularly attending community events, running “Brew Monday” sessions, and chatting to commuters as part of their ongoing outreach work.

The review also shines a light on the charity’s powerful work inside Ford Prison.

A specialist team visits regularly to support prison Listeners – inmates trained to provide emotional support to fellow prisoners who may be struggling.

It’s a relationship that continues to make a meaningful difference behind the scenes.

This year also brought cause for celebration, as Worthing Samaritans volunteer Ann was named “Volunteer of the Year” at the Worthing Community Awards.

At 80 years old, Ann said she was “amazed and thrilled” to receive the honour.

Throughout the year, Worthing Samaritans remained on hand for anyone who needed them, answering 19,000 phone calls and holding more than 500 web chats with people seeking support.

The organisation’s message remains clear: no one has to face tough times alone.

To learn more about Worthing Samaritans, donate, or explore ways you can get involved, visit samaritans.org.

If you need someone to talk to, Samaritans are available free, 24/7, every day of the year.Call 116 123, email jo@samaritans.org, or visit samaritans.org.