THE branch of Samaritans that serves Okehampton has seen a 12.5% rise in the number of contacts made by the public.

The Exeter, Mid and East Devon branch of the national charity took 23,411 telephone calls from the public in 2014, up from 19,087 the previous year. There were also 2,394 emails sent to the public who had contacted the branch, plus 3,648 text messages.

Helen Crossfield, director of the branch, said: 'These contact totals for 2014 represent a significant increase. While we hope this is an indication of the growing recognition that we are here for people, it's also a sign of how vital it is to recruit more volunteers.'

During 2014 there were 116 listening volunteers and probationary volunteers handling these contacts — an average of over 255 contacts per volunteer.

'Our work is tremendously fulfilling,' Mrs Crossfield said. 'Anyone over 18 can apply to help the charity and our current volunteers range from people in their 20s to those in their 80s.'

The charity provides support to people who are distressed or in despair which may lead to thoughts of suicide. People can talk to Samaritans at any time, in their own way and in confidence about whatever is going on in their life.

No information discussed is passed on outside of the organisation including the names of anyone calling. The charity offers a safe place to turn for those who feel they have nowhere else to turn and offers help without judgement.

To find out more and see how you can get involved, call 01392 496649 or e-mail [email protected]">[email protected]

If you think you could use the help of Samaritans or just need someone to talk to, call the branch on 01392 411711.