Samaritans to lend an ear at wellbeing show in Milton Keynes

Samaritans volunteers and Milton Keynes Council staff will be chatting to locals and football fans at MK1 Shopping & Leisure Park, by Stadium MK on Saturday.

The charity will be running a roadshow sharing tips for mental wellbeing and highlighting the support available to anyone in the community who may not be coping.

The roadshow will run from 9.30am to 3.30pm, with Samaritans volunteers available for emotional support in their We Listen trailer to residents and football fans going to the MK Dons vs Bury game.

Local mental health charity Mind BLMK, and Compass Milton Keynes, who provide support if you or someone you know is struggling with alcohol or drug use, are also setting up a stall to raise awareness.

Peter Needham, director of Samaritans’ Milton Keynes branch said: “Anyone can feel overwhelmed. People talk to us about a whole range of issues, from family, relationships and bereavement to work, health and finances.

“We’re here to listen and support, no matter what you’re dealing with. We’re pleased to have the opportunity to talk with shoppers, visitors and residents, to let them know that anyone can contact Samaritans for free. We’re grateful to Milton Keynes Council and everyone involved for helping us to spread the word about support services in the area.”

Deputy leader and portfolio holder for Healthier and Stronger Communities, Councillor Hannah O’Neill said: “Wellbeing is incredibly important.

“so I’m very pleased to support this event, alongside Milton Keynes Council. It’s a great way to see the fantastic work Samaritans does and to find out more about the support its volunteers provide. I think the We Listen trailer is a great idea and it puts out that all-important message – Samaritans are there to listen!”

Samaritans hosts a range of outreach events every year to raise awareness of the charity and encourage people to seek help before reaching crisis.

Anyone can contact Samaritans any time for free from any phone on 116 123, even a mobile without credit. The number will not show up on your phone bill. You can also email [email protected] or go to www.samaritans.org to find details of your nearest branch where you can talk to one of our trained volunteers face to face.

Also by the Milton Keynes Citizen newspaper: