A charity which helps people in distress is moving to a new home in Dumfries.
The Samaritans are flitting from their long-term base at Loreburn Street to Hestan House on the Crichton estate.
And the move has coincided with an appeal for more volunteers as demand for services is increasing.
Ann Stephenson, director, said: “We are all excited about our move to Hestan House.
“We will have more space to work in a safe and socially distanced way in bright and airy offices whilst we support callers from across the UK through our national 24/7 helpline (116 123).
“This is an exciting ‘post lockdown’ time for our branch, and we look forward to becoming part of the Crichton community, growing our volunteer base and resuming and expanding our local services in Dumfries and Galloway.”
The Dumfries branch, which has existed for 41 years, currently receives around 60 calls or emails from people a week, which amounts to roughly 3,000 a year.
The Covid-19 pandemic saw the number of calls rise and caused other issues for the group with face-to-face drop ins and outreach services halted.
However, with things slowly getting back to a new normal the group is keen to take on more volunteers.
Ann added: “We hope to begin our outreach services again soon, including a weekly stand in DGRI for both patients and staff; working with Network Rail staff to reduce the incidence of suicide on the railways, and raising awareness of our service in those communities considered most at risk.
“We have already resumed our important work supporting a Listener Service within Dumfries prison.
“Early next year, we hope to run a weekly face-to-face drop in at our new offices, for anyone who would prefer to talk to someone directly rather than over the phone.
“The need for our service has increased hugely during Covid.
To find out more about the organisation, how to donate or how to become a Samaritans volunteer, please visit our website – www.samaritans.org.
If you need someone to talk to contact Samaritans any time, day or night on 116 123.
