50TH ANNIVERSARY OF SAMARITANS

Early day motion 6, tabled 26 November 2003 by Bob Russell (Liberal Democrat). Signed by 77 members.

That this House congratulates Samaritans on its 50th anniversary; recognises with admiration the support which volunteers have given, and continue to give, to those in distress and despair who have contacted the service over the past five decades; notes that almost five million contacts are made each year, usually through the nationwide 08457 90 90 90 telephone number, with others seeking help through personal sessions, letter and e-mail, the latter particularly from young men and the socially excluded in both urban and rural communities; welcomes new developments which take the service into schools and the workplace; and wishes all involved with Samaritans continued success in the years ahead in helping those in emotional distress.

Signatures by party: Labour 40, Liberal Democrat 21, Conservative 6, Labour/Co-operative 5, DUP 1, Independent Ulster Unionist 1, Plaid Cymru 1, Scottish National Party 1, UUP 1.