Why Volunteer?
Storengy UK encourages it's employees to take part in volunteering days.
As a part of this commitment, each year, Storengy UK employees will be able to request a Corporate Social Responsibility Day, to volunteer for a project or initiative that benefits the community. Our SHEQ Manager Judi Boardman regulary volunteers at her local Samaritan's centre read her personal story below...
Judi has been a Samaritan for over 8 years and also deals with the Health and Safety and building issues as well as being a Trustee of the Mid Cheshire branch in Northwich.
What made you become a Samaritan?
I just wanted to do something that I would find interesting and rewarding and that would last longer than a 12 week evening class. Something I can do for me and give to other people. One day I was passing the centre and saw the banner we used to have, it reminded me that about 25 years ago I too had rung.
How is it going?
Well as a single parent I am used to juggling!! I like listening the best, but have been involved with the building and all the work that has gone into it, from fire training, risk assessments and making decisions as a Trustee.
How much time does it involve?
In the beginning it took a total of 6 months of 1 night a week of training before I was allowed in the ‘Operations’ room. The first call was nerve-racking! But it was an easy one to deal with and so gave me confidence to carry on.
What kind of calls are received?
We listen to people who are in distress or despair, many of whom have suicidal thoughts. Samaritans don’t give advice or tell people what they ought to do; rather we ask questions to try and get the caller to recognise what their options are and how to begin to make changes. Samaritans are a support network as sadly, many people simply don’t have friends or family to support them. Most calls these days are related to mental health issues. We also respond to emails and texts and webchat is expected at the end of 2019.
If you would like to find out more about Volunteering for the samaritans please visit: https://volunteer.samaritans.org/volunteer
Judi Boardman