Samaritans

Samaritans is a suicide prevention charity operating across the UK and Ireland. They provide 24/7 emotional support through phone, email, and text, offering a listening ear and non-judgmental space for those in distress. Samaritans operates over 200 branches and locations, relying heavily on a network of 23,000 volunteers to deliver their services. They also actively campaign for a suicide-safer internet, conduct research and policy work, and provide training and resources to individuals and organisations on suicide prevention.

Samaritans’ vision is to reduce the number of suicides, which they aim to achieve through various initiatives. Their commitment to Equity, Diversity and Inclusion is a key pillar, ensuring their services are accessible and relevant to diverse communities. Samaritans' approach prioritizes listening, confidentiality, non-judgmental support, and empowering individuals to make their own decisions. They are dedicated to building a more suicide-safer world, working tirelessly to reach those at risk and create a culture where people feel safe and supported.

Samaritans embraces a flexible work environment, offering hybrid working arrangements that combine in-person and virtual connection. From January 2025, employees will be required to work in person for a minimum of two days per month, primarily for meetings with their line manager, team meetings, and collaboration with colleagues in other departments. This approach aims to foster effective communication and collaboration while allowing for flexibility in individual work schedules and home lives.

Samaritans offers its employees a comprehensive package of benefits designed to support their well-being and work-life balance. These include flexible working arrangements, family-friendly policies, a competitive salary with annual reviews, 28 days of annual leave (including three wellbeing days), access to mental health first aiders and an employee assistance program, a Simply Health Cash Back scheme for medical and holistic health therapies, and complimentary membership to Headspace and Perkbox.

Samaritans is a charity dedicated to reducing feelings of isolation and disconnection that can lead to suicide. They offer a 24/7 listening service by phone, email, and text message, providing emotional support to anyone struggling to cope. They also work to prevent suicide by educating the public, promoting mental health awareness, and advocating for policy changes that support those at risk. Their mission is to ensure that anyone experiencing suicidal thoughts or struggling with difficult emotions has somewhere to turn for confidential and non-judgemental support.

Samaritans fosters a culture that values compassion, empathy, and inclusivity. They encourage open and honest communication, promoting a sense of belonging for both staff and volunteers. The organization prioritizes a safe and supportive environment where everyone feels valued and their experiences are acknowledged. This commitment to well-being is evident in their flexible work policies and employee benefits, ensuring a positive and inspiring workplace.

Samaritans is committed to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for all staff and volunteers, reflecting the diversity of the communities they serve. They have outlined five strategic goals for equity, diversity, and inclusion, including creating an inclusive culture, improving representation, increasing reach, collaborating with marginalized communities, and appealing to a diverse range of supporters. These goals are supported by a two-year EDI plan, which includes initiatives such as establishing diversity networks, auditing accessibility, embedding inclusion in policies, and promoting inclusive language and representation in communication.