FALL IN THE NUMBER OF SAMARITANS

Motion Text

That this House notes with great concern that the number of Samaritans volunteers has fallen by 3,000 compared to five years ago; further notes in 2003 there were 4.8 million contacts made to Samaritans, 97 per cent. of which were by telephone, visits to the branch, e-mail and letters; congratulates the 203 branches operated by approximately 18,500 unpaid volunteers for their hard work and dedication; and calls on both central and local government to give as much support to this excellent organisation as possible.