Central London Samaritans

Who we are

Central London Samaritans, based in the heart of London, is the founding branch of the wider Samaritans organisation.

Our volunteers provide confidential, non-judgemental, emotional support to anyone who is struggling to cope for whatever reason.We’re here to listen every hour of every day and have provided this support without interruption since opening in 1953 at St Stephen Walbrook. We respond to around 70,000 requests for help each year via phone calls, email and webchat as well as taking our services to vulnerable individuals at highest risk of suicide such as homeless people, people in prison, people in custody and those bereaved by suicide.Anyone can contact Samaritans for free in confidence any time from any phone on 116 123, even a mobile without credit, and the number won’t show up on your phone bill.

Every call Samaritans answer could be the one that changes someone's life - the call that ends with someone finding the strength to keep going.

Our culture and values

Our Values
Our support services adapt to the changing environment, but the values at the core of our listening service remain constant:

Listening
Exploring feelings alleviates distress and helps people to reach a better understanding of their situation and the options open to them.

Confidentiality
If people feel safe, they are more likely to be open about their feelings.
 

Non-judgemental
We want people to be able to talk to us without fear of prejudice or rejection.
 

People making their own decisions
We believe that people have the right to find their own solution and that telling people what to do takes responsibility away from them.
 

Human contact
Giving people time, undivided attention and empathy meets a fundamental emotional need and reduces distress and despair.