Norwich Samaritans turned 60 this month. Outgoing Branch Director James Ellis explains how the branch has been answering the phone to those in need for six decades
Who are you and what do you do?
I’m James Ellis (James 4 in Samaritans) and I am a local businessman by day, Samaritans listening volunteer by night (and at other times). I am a 45-year-old father of two children and live with my wife, Mel, in Mattishall. I was born and bred in Norfolk and love our county!
How long have you been Director at Norwich Samaritans and what does your job entail?
I have been Branch Director for three years (and came to the end of my term last month) and this involves running our branch of 200 volunteers, which includes two shops and our 24/7 listening service.
What is the history of the Samaritans in Norwich? How many volunteers are involved nowadays?
Norwich Samaritans was started in April 1964 by Canon Hugh Melinsky – I have attached some info. We are now around 200 volunteers, with listening on the phones and volunteering in our shops to help raise much needed funds.
How has the organisation evolved over the last six decades?
In 1964, Norwich Samaritans were contacted 338 times – this has increased to nearly 60,000 contacts every year with people in distress. We now offer support via phone, email and online chat. We support two prisons and do many outreach activities in our local community – be those businesses, schools or in partnership with other organisations like railway stations or the NHS.
How are you marking 60 years in April?
We organised a Diamond Anniversary Ball in March, had an event to thank our volunteers in April and turned a number of landmarks green in celebration.
What would your message be to people needing the services of the Samaritans in this anniversary year?
It is good to talk. Whatever you’re going through, a Samaritan will face it with you. We’re here 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
To find out more information about Norwich Samaritans, visit samaritans.org/branches/norwich. James Ellis retired as Director on in March, as his term of three years came to an end, and the new Director is Jane Brown. Norwich Samaritans in numbers, over the past 12 months: 175 Listening volunteers gave 8,101 hours of listening of which 2,365 hours where during the night; 29,292 telephone calls were answered; 1,584 emails were responded to; 1,453 conversations were had through Online Chat. The branch is also supported by: 57 support and shop volunteering across 2 shops. The Bishop’s Garden Open Day on May 12 will be in aid of Norwich Samaritans
Featured image of James Ellis – supplied
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