Samaritans facing volunteer exodus over proposed branch closures
Summary
The Samaritans, a suicide prevention charity, is facing significant volunteer departures if plans to close over 100 branches go forward. The charity proposes shifting to remote work and larger office hubs to manage calls more efficiently. Critics fear the closures will harm community-based support and reduce the charity's ability to answer calls effectively.Key Facts
- The Samaritans plan to close more than 100 branches in the UK and Ireland.
- As part of the plan, volunteers would work from larger offices or from home.
- Critics worry these changes will weaken community connections and reduce call response capability.
- If approved, branch closures would start in April in the UK and by 2027 in Ireland.
- Many volunteers are against closing branches, with surveys showing a high percentage unwilling to move to remote work.
- The charity says the changes will allow quicker response times and more volunteer opportunities.
- Opponents have called for a vote of no confidence in the charity’s chairman.
- The charity claims it needs to "future-proof" by reducing branches while continuing to offer 24/7 support.
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