Kilkenny's landmarks to light up for Samaritan's Longest Night

Samaritans in Kilkenny are reminding those in need that their helpline will be open during their darkest hours if they are lonely or struggling to cope this Christmas.

Volunteers on the 24-hour-helpline answered more than 35,000 calls in Ireland last December, including almost 1,000 contacts on Christmas Day alone.

Samaritans are also calling on landmarks and buildings across the city and county to light up in green to mark the Longest Night on Tuesday, December 21, to show people Samaritans are here for them during the long dark nights.

Volunteer Donal Ryan branch director, said: “It has been a really difficult year for so many people with the pandemic affecting so many people’s health and wellbeing and this will be a very different Christmas for many people.

“We know that people struggle more at Christmas, as it’s a time when loneliness can really hit home. We want people to know that we are available 24/7 for everyone on freephone 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.ie .

City Hall, Thosel,Kilkenny Castle, Watergate Theatre, Avonmore HQ Avalon House Hotel , Carlow Council buildings are among the buildings/landmarks turning green on December 21st  - the winter solstice – to support Samaritan’s Christmas campaign.

Donal Ryan said: “We really want to thank anyone who is supporting Samaritans Longest Night to help spread the message that we’re there everyone during the long dark winter nights. Any other business who would like to take part can contact  admin@samaritanskkcw. ie or adminirleand@samaritans. org.”

Samaritans is the only all island 24-hour emotional support freephone helpline, answering over half a million calls a year.

Concerns over loneliness and isolation increased last December on the national helpline, accounting for 38% of emotional support calls, followed by mental health/illness, family issues and Covid 19.

Michael, a former caller to Samaritans who is now a volunteer in Samaritans’ Drogheda Branch, will be among the volunteers on duty over Christmas. 

He is asking the public to ‘Be A Samaritans Christmas Star’ this December by making a donation and helping Samaritans volunteers be there for others during their darkest hours.

“Since being a caller, I know how important it is to answer that phone when it rings. I remember how I felt at that time, and I want to be able to remind our callers that they are not alone,” Michael said.

“Christmas is a time of giving so, as a Samaritan, it is extra special to give your time to those who cannot cope well with the season. There is something special about setting aside a few hours and giving them to someone who is finding it difficult.

“Helping someone through a tough situation and helping ease their worries is a humbling experience.”