Samaritans Ireland Reports Surge in Calls: 50 Contacts Every Hour in 2024

Samaritans Ireland Reports Surge in Calls: 50 Contacts Every Hour in 2024

By Aaron Joyce | L.T.T Media | May 21, 2025

Samaritans Ireland has revealed a significant increase in demand for its services, with volunteers responding to an average of 50 calls every hour throughout 2024. The organization's 2024 Impact Report indicates that over 470,000 contacts were made during the year, equating to approximately 1,200 daily interactions.

The report highlights that more than half of the individuals who reached out had no other form of support, underscoring the vital role Samaritans plays in providing emotional assistance. Common issues raised by callers included mental health challenges, feelings of isolation, loneliness, and family-related problems. On average, emotional support calls lasted 28 minutes, reflecting the depth of conversations and the need for comprehensive support.

In addition to direct calls, Samaritans handled 6,800 diverted calls from five other helplines during their off-hours, further emphasizing the organization's expansive reach and reliability.

The organization also conducted its first caller experience survey, "Understanding Our Callers," in collaboration with University College Cork. The study surveyed nearly 600 individuals and found that 84% felt Samaritans provided a safe space, 79% felt genuinely listened to, and 73% reported feeling supported by the service.

Sarah O'Toole, Executive Director of Samaritans Ireland, emphasized the organization's mission: "Our volunteers create a safe space for human connection that can often be life-saving. In the quiet moments of human struggle, a listening ear can be the difference between despair and hope."

Minister for Mental Health, Mary Butler TD, acknowledged the organization's impact, stating, "Over the past 20 years, there has been a significant reduction in the rate of suicide and self-harm, and I have no doubt voluntary organizations like Samaritans have played a key role in this progress by acting as a lifeline for many people."

Support and Contact Information:

Samaritans Ireland offers free, confidential support 24/7.

Freephone: 116 123

Email: jo@samaritans.ie

Website: www.samaritans.ie

For those in need, Samaritans remains a steadfast source of support, ensuring that no one has to face their struggles alone.