It's the little things...

I was handed this leaflet at the station and it touched a chord for many reasons.  My mother was a Samaritan in the 1960s and actually met the founder Chad Varah.  I was immensely proud of the work she did and she would share  with us quite openly about how she listened to peoples stories and held a safe space for them to talk.

When in London every bridge has the Samaritans number displayed.  This visual reminder of others troubles  and the beauty of the Thames gives me a sense of melancholy.

This morning the charity was on the news as they are cutting back on premises which would mean Samaritans taking calls in their homes.  Samaritans volunteer and it is important for them to have space from the work they do, so this will be hard in their own homes, I hope as a result of cut backs they do not lose too many of their stars.

The leaflet I received is aptly worded Little Tips, and it made me realise we can all be Samaritans everyday as it really is the little things:-

• Spotting when something is different with a  friend or colleague - are they avoiding others, are they quieter than normal, what is the change that you can see and feel?
• Don't be shy to open up a conversation, "Are you OK?" "How are things?"
• The best thing you can do is just LISTEN - be there mentally and physically for that person
• Suggest very gently that there is help available- the Samaritans is free and there for you 24 hrs - and also offer your own services "You can talk to me at anytime"

There is a lovely statement on the leaflets that says "You don't have to be an expert to help someone open up when something is up.  The fact that you care is what matters".