You have no items in your shopping basket.
Samaritans Awareness Day: Supporting care workers in distress through active listening
Rose Mabiza
24-07-2023
On Samaritans Awareness Day, we celebrate the empowering work of the Samaritans UK in providing crucial emotional support to individuals experiencing distress or despair. Established in 1953, the Samaritans operates a 24-hour confidential helpline staffed by trained volunteers who listen attentively and offer support without judgment.
In this article, we shine a spotlight on a remarkable event that aims to make a difference in the lives of those facing emotional challenges, especially in the health and social care sector and celebrate the incredible work of Samaritans UK in providing vital emotional support to individuals experiencing distress or despair.
Samaritans: A non-judgemental ears
The Samaritans is a charitable organisation that provides emotional support to individuals experiencing distress or despair, including those who may have suicidal thoughts. The Samaritans was founded in 1953 and operates a 24-hour confidential helpline staffed by trained volunteers who listen and offer support without judgment.
With over 200 branches across the United Kingdom, the organisation aims to give hope to people in emotional crises through active listening, non-directive conversation, and signposting to other sources of support. Their mission is to support anyone in emotional distress, help save lives, and empower people to be there for anyone struggling to cope.
Overcoming adversities: Supporting the NHS and social care workers
The pandemic and its far-reaching consequences have posed immense challenges for dedicated, heroic NHS and social care workers. These individuals have been at the forefront of fighting against the virus and maintaining the health and well-being of the population.
Healthcare professionals face increased workloads due to the increased number of patients requiring medical attention. Nurses, doctors, and support staff have worked long hours. Healthcare workers have also been burdened by the pandemic, stretching resources to their limits. The shortages of protective equipment, hospital beds, and essential medical supplies have added stress and pressure.
As a result of these relentless challenges, the mental health of NHS and social care workers has been severely impacted. The relentless nature of their work, coupled with the emotional toll of witnessing suffering and loss, has led to heightened levels of exhaustion, burnout, and stress.
Understanding the need for help: Encouraging support for mental struggles
Common indicators such as feeling perpetually exhausted, emotionally drained, and disinterested in activities that we once found enjoyable can be a subtle tell-tale sign that we are struggling to cope. However, it is vital to note that everyone faces challenges differently, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach to dealing with them.
Acknowledging and seeking help is essential in dealing with personal or emotional difficulties. Despite the stereotype that Samaritan is only for individuals with suicidal thoughts, studies reveal that only one in five callers mention feeling suicidal, highlighting the broad range of issues the organisation helps individuals address.
It's important to recognise that seeking help is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Every individual's struggle is different, and Samaritans recognise this by providing personalised support that caters to the unique nature of each person's challenges. They offer a confidential helpline and email and text support services to ensure that individuals can reach out in whichever way they feel most comfortable.
Empowering the frontline: Samaritans' mental health support
Samaritans understands the immense challenges faced by health and social care workers and has taken significant strides to address these challenges through collaboration with the NHS, the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC), and industry stakeholders. This collaborative approach has enabled Samaritans to gain valuable insights and develop tailored support services specifically designed to meet the unique needs of these frontline workers.
With a focus on providing a confidential and judgment-free space, Samaritans have created a support system wherein health and social care workers can offload, share their experiences, and be truly listened to. Through their empowering initiatives, Samaritans aim to enhance the well-being of these dedicated individuals, acknowledging the vital role they play in caring for others and reinforcing their importance within the healthcare and social care sectors.
Conclusion
It is crucial to remember that as a health or social care worker, you are never alone in your struggles. Samaritans stand ready to provide a compassionate and listening ear to support you through difficulties. Expressing your emotions and sharing your personal experiences can bring a fresh perspective and solace in knowing that dedicated individuals can offer understanding and assistance.
By acknowledging the challenges and sacrifices of your work, you are already taking a significant step towards prioritising your well-being. Remember, your well-being matters, and seeking support is a vital step towards caring for yourself as you care for others. Don't hesitate to reach out, ask for help and discover the solace and reassurance that comes with sharing your experiences and emotions.
Click here to see our wide range of accredited health and wellbeing courses and training programmes.
About the Mandatory Training Group
The Mandatory Training Group is one of the leading UK providers of CPDUK-accredited statutory and mandatory training, continuing professional development (CPD) courses, eLearning software and workforce development solutions for all sectors.
By making things simple and designing interactive e-learning content, we can provide meaningful training programs at all levels and enhance the capacity and resilience of individuals and organisations.
Click here to see our wide range of accredited health and wellbeing courses and training programmes.
References and resources
Care Management Matters (2021) - A helping hand – Samaritans’ NHS and Social Care Helpline.
HM Government (2022) - Workforce burnout and resilience in the NHS and social care.
Samaritans (2023) - Signs you may be struggling to cope.
Samaritans (2023) - Wellbeing support line for health and social care workers.
Contact us
Complete the form below to find out how we can help your organisation with regulatory compliance and governance, statutory and mandatory training, continuous professional development, learning management systems and educational technologies.
