SAMARITANS in West Cork are preparing for a surge in callers this Christmas from people who are struggling and are reminding those feeling the pressures of the season to reach out for support and a listening ear.

Last year, Samaritans volunteers answered more than 30,000 calls and emails during the month of December, with more than 800 of those on Christmas Day.

Clonakilty, the only Cork branch outside of the city, takes roughly 500 calls a month, with that number expected to increase during the festive period.

Mental health concerns, loneliness and isolation, family and relationships are issues among the main concerns raised by callers.

Jon Spencer, Clonakilty branch director at Cork Samaritans, reminds anyone who is finding the festive season difficult to reach out and not struggle in silence.

‘Christmas is seen as a happy time for people, but for others it can be quite challenging. Bereavement, loneliness, relationship and family problems, abuse and drug and alcohol misuse can feature heavily in some homes. Parents can also be struggling with financial pressures and struggle to the expectation to appear happy.

‘Samaritans is a charity that prevents suicide through the power of human connection and providing that human connection is crucial for many of our callers at this time of year.

‘It is vital that, with regular support services often closed, people know our volunteers are there, available 24/7, if they are struggling,’ said Jon.

Around 25 to 30 volunteers support calls taken in Clonakilty, providing over 100-120 hour of listening a month.

This will be Jon’s third Christmas volunteering with the charity, and he said it’s a ‘very humbling experience to be on the end of the phone when someone is sharing something very personal to them.’

‘We offer a safe space to share things people might find difficult to talk about with family and friends. We don’t give advice, but we help people explore options and ways to resolve issues. We believe that if we listen actively we can provide a space to explore what’s causing distress, and there’s not many places where you can do that,’ he said.

Loneliness is a big problem among callers. ‘And it’s different for everyone, it’s such a personal experience. It could be due to the loss of a life partner, and even through other family members might be around, you can still feel isolated, and it’s hard to say that to people close to you,’ he said.

Meanwhile, local businesses and landmarks are being urged to light up in green for Samaritans’ Longest Night on Sunday December 21st - the Winter Solstice - to show people Samaritans are here for them during the long dark nights. Members of the public can also support by lighting a candle on the night and show their support across social media.

Volunteers will be on the streets in Clonakilty, not collecting but handing out candles for people to put in their windows as a symbol of hope and light.

To contact Samaritans free any time from any phone even a mobile without credit, call 116 123. To volunteer with Samaritans visit www.samaritans.ie/volunteer