Hi guys, thanks for taking a bit of time out to read this. I'm running the Edinburgh Marathon on 29th May 2022. I've chosen to run with Samaritans and support their cause. 

Samaritans' principal aim is to ensure fewer people lose their lives to suicide. One of their key resources to make this happen is their 24 hour helplines, where any of us are able to phone up and talk about whatever is going on in our lives. These services are run entirely by volunteers, who are trained in active listening. Samaritans places high value on the benefits of connection with other people; sometimes just a small conversation, even a simple comment or question, can save a life. 

As well as the practical services they provide, Samaritans is having a profoundly positive impact on our cultural attitudes towards mental health. They are helping to spread the message that challenging experiences, stress, and emotional upheaval are natural realities of life for human beings; these can occur at different stages of life, sometimes briefly, sometimes for much longer. The more we feel able to talk about these experiences, the easier they can become to resolve and integrate into our lives. 

It can be incredibly daunting and difficult for people to take that first step and talk; they're not sure who to turn to, are worried about further stigmatisation or simply can't find the words. Samaritans is campaigning to change these attitudes, whilst maintaining and expanding their confidential, non-judgemental listening service.

If you'd like to support their work, please donate whatever feels comfortable and right for you. All donations are greatly appreciated and will go directly to Samaritans. 

You can find out more at: https://www.samaritans.org/about-samaritans/

Thanks for your help.

All the best,

Calum