Samaritans of Bournemouth and District | Providing Support Across the Community

Samaritans of Bournemouth and District is a local branch of the national Samaritans charity, providing confidential, non-judgemental emotional support to people who may be struggling, feeling overwhelmed, or finding life difficult.

Established in 1961, the branch is supported by a team of trained volunteers who give their time to listen and support people across Bournemouth and the surrounding areas.

Samaritans offers a free listening service, available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Anyone can get in touch, whatever they are going through. This could include loneliness, relationship difficulties, bereavement, financial worries, mental health concerns, or suicidal thoughts.

The service is confidential and non-judgemental, giving people the opportunity to talk openly about what is happening in their lives.

Anyone who needs to talk can call 116 123, free from any phone, day or night.

Alongside its listening service, the Bournemouth branch is involved in a range of community outreach activities designed to encourage better understanding of emotional wellbeing and the importance of listening.

This includes working with schools, colleges, universities and local organisations, helping to raise awareness of the support available and encouraging people to look out for one another.

The branch has also developed relationships with organisations across the area, helping to extend its reach and make conversations about emotional health more accessible.

The branch relies on its volunteers, who play an important role in keeping its services running.

There are several ways to get involved, including becoming a listening volunteer, helping with fundraising, administration, community outreach, or charity shop activities.

Listening volunteers receive training and ongoing support to help them carry out their role. It can be a rewarding way to contribute to the local community while developing valuable communication and listening skills.

People interested in volunteering can find out more through the branch or the national Samaritans website.

As a charity, Samaritans relies on donations, fundraising and support from the local community to help maintain its services.

Individuals, businesses and community groups can contribute through fundraising activities, donations and other forms of support. The branch also benefits from its charity shop in Bournemouth, which provides another way for people to support their work.

Find out what’s happening locally, discover ways to get involved, and learn how your support can make a difference for people across the community on the Samaritans website and social media.

Last Updated: November 2026