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Samaritans to close more than 100 branches
The charity plans extensive branch reductions, raising concerns among volunteers and supporters.
The charity's plans raise concerns among volunteers about support and intimacy.
Samaritans plan to close over 100 branches across UK and Ireland
The Samaritans, a key organization in suicide prevention, announced plans to close more than 100 of its branches in the UK and Ireland. Chief executive Julie Bentley stated that the charity's current model is unsustainable and hinders service delivery. Over 50 branches have expressed concerns, fearing volunteer loss and the impact on the charity's ability to provide effective support. Many volunteers believe the proposed changes could lead to the dismantling of a system that has operated effectively for decades, with fears that virtual volunteering may compromise the quality of care offered to those in need. The changes, if approved in September, are expected to begin in April 2024 in the UK and 2027 in Ireland.
Key Takeaways
"It's likely that within the next seven to 10 years our branch network will have reduced by at least half."
Julie Bentley highlights the significant changes planned within the organization.
"They're dismantling something that has worked for 70 years."
A volunteer reflects on the potential emotional loss caused by branch closures.
"We’re not against change, but they’ve not provided any evidence these changes will improve the charity."
A volunteer expresses doubt about the effectiveness of the proposed changes.
"With less branches, we'll look to move to fewer but bigger regions."
Bentley discusses the strategic shift in branch operations.
The decision to reduce the number of branches reflects broader trends in the charity sector around efficiency and modernization. However, the intimacy and connection that local branches provide are pivotal to the organization’s mission. The Samaritans may risk alienating current and prospective volunteers who value personal interaction in their important work. Bentley's acknowledgment of 'professionalization' hints at a shift away from community-centered practices towards a more corporate structure, which could affect both service delivery and volunteer retention.
Highlights
- Volunteers fear they are dismantling a 70-year success story.
- 'It feels more like the professionalisation of the Samaritans.'
- The loss of local branches risks impersonal support for callers.
- Volunteers express worry about virtual isolation.
Concerns over volunteer support and service quality
The planned branch closures may lead to a loss of local support and intimacy, risking volunteer retention and effective service delivery. Many volunteers fear that moving to larger operational centers could impact the charity's ability to provide personal care to those in distress.
Future developments in the charity's approach may redefine how volunteers and callers interact.
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