Charity provides an essental support network for the local community
AS YOU may have noticed on a match-day at St James Park, Exeter City are keen to promote our partnership with the Samaritans’ Exeter Mid and East Devon branch.It’s not always a comfortable subject to discuss, but in 2013 - the latest figures available - there were 6,233 suicides in the UK. This breaks down as 5.1 suicides for each 100,000 women but rises to 11.9 per 100,000 men.
The male suicide rate is now at its highest since 2001, with 25.1 suicides per 100,000 men aged between 45 and 49 representing the biggest spike in figures in 35 years.
Such disturbing figures underline the importance of support networks within local communities, which is why the club is keen to work with the local branch of Samaritans. Based in the centre of Exeter, the branch has 100 volunteers answering calls, emails and SMS texts; they live in and around the city with many of them Grecians fans themselves.
We are proud of our partnership with the charity, and occasions such as the FA Cup tie at home to Liverpool provide a great deal of exposure for the work that the Samaritans do in the community.
As a club we want all of our supporters to know they can contact the organisation if they need to talk. Helen Crossfield, director of the Exeter, Mid and East Devon branch, said: “It’s all too easy to turn away, ignore how you’re feeling, and put on a brave face. But you don’t have to do that with us. Samaritans volunteers make time for you and really listen to you, because simply being listened to can help you find a way through”
Anyone can call Samaritans for free, any time from any phone on 116 123 (you don’t need credit and this number won’t show up on your phone bill). You can text on 07725 909090, email jo@samaritans.org, or visit samaritans.org/exeter.