Samaritans facing volunteer exodus over proposed branch closures

"we can answer more calls, cut wait times and make it easier for people to volunteer with us"

"All of those things emanate from the fact we have a local branch and would likely go if we closed. Our bra"

Samaritans plans would close at least half of its branches across the UK and Ireland, affecting more than 100 sites as volunteers move to larger offices or answer calls from home. The charity states the changes will increase capacity, reduce wait times and make volunteering easier. More than 50 branches immediately raised concerns and some branches demand a vote of no confidence in the chairman. Opponents warn closures will weaken local community work, reduce outreach and risk an exodus of volunteers that could jeopardize call-answering ability. First closures would begin in April in the UK and in 2027 in Ireland. James Watkins cited Rhyl branch outreach in a deprived neighbourhood that would likely stop if closed.

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