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	The Waterford and South East branch of the Samaritans launched its &lsquo;24/7 Talk to Us&rsquo; in John Robert&rsquo;s Square last Wednesday.</p>
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	The Samaritans marks 24th July each year as a measure to highlight that Samaritan volunteers are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week and each day of the year. This year, the organisation is highlighting the importance of talking as a measure to lessen stresses and problems that can contribute to poor mental health.</p>
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	Speaking at the launch, Ann Barron, director Waterford and South East branch, said: &quot;Part of our message today is to let people know that Samaritans is here for anyone who wants to talk. People don&rsquo;t have to be suicidal in order to make contact with us. It&rsquo;s important that people talk about their problems and when things are getting them down.</p>
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	&quot;In particular, we&rsquo;re sending a message to men that they should not hide their feelings or be reluctant to talk about problems. By ignoring problems, or not talking about them, the burden can increase and lead to much greater mental health problems, including a risk of suicide.</p>
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	&quot;Samaritans provide a safe space for people to talk, and we&rsquo;re available around the clock, every day of the year. Our services are highly professionalised but &ndash; unlike so many big, national organisations &ndash; they are delivered entirely by volunteers. Our volunteers undertake extensive training before they are permitted to take calls or meet with people who require emotional support.</p>
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	&quot;The &lsquo;24/7 Talk to Us&rsquo; campaign offers an opportunity to recognise the huge commitment that our volunteers make. It also gives the public an opportunity to understand that our volunteers come from all walks of life; are all ages; and live in different parts of the country.&quot;</p>
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	The Samaritans helpline is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. FREEPHONE 1850 60 90 90, email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:jo@samaritans.org" style="color: rgb(76, 110, 136);">jo@samaritans.org</a>. Callers are welcome at the local branch, 16 Beau Street, Waterford, between the hours of 9am and 10pm.</p>
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	<a href="http://www.waterford-today.ie/waterford-today-news/20302-local-samaritans-are-there-24-7-20302.html">http://www.waterford-today.ie/waterford-today-news/20302-local-samaritans-are-there-24-7-20302.html</a></p>
