McArthur meets with Samaritans to discuss Orkney branch closure
Following news that the Orkney Samaritans branch is due to close alongside four other North Scotland branches, Orkney's MSP Liam McArthur has today met with Samaritans representatives to discuss the impact of the proposed closure locally.
The charity has cited the need to "strengthen volunteer capacity and provide more reliable support" as the reason for the proposed restructuring to fewer, larger branches.
The Samaritans helpline is a national number, so people in Orkney seeking support from the charity will continue to be able to do so despite the closure of the local branch.
Concerns have been raised about the treatment of local volunteers however, with the proposed closure due to take place before alternative volunteering opportunities have been established.
Representatives of the charity have agreed to visit Orkney to meet with the local branch to discuss concerns and take part in discussions with other local charities about collaborative working in future.
Commenting after the meeting, Mr McArthur said:
"Samaritans provide vital support for people in need here in Orkney and across the country. Despite the closure of the local branch, it’s important to stress that access to that support for islanders will still be available through the national helpline on 116 123.
"Nevertheless, I want to pay tribute to the dedication and hard work of local volunteers in Orkney over many years. Whether volunteering with the helpline, fundraising or increasing public awareness, all have played their part in ensuring that vulnerable people can access help at times of crisis.
"That is why the actions of the Samaritans UK board to proceed in this way have been so regrettable. Whatever the case for the current restructure, pressing ahead with branch closures before alternative volunteering pathways are in place is disrespectful to the volunteers affected and risks the organisation losing vital skills and experience.
"Samaritans have agreed to come to Orkney to discuss with local volunteers their concerns and options for future working, including through collaboration with other third sector organisations. That is welcome but should have happened before the board decided to start closing branches.
“There is no doubt that recent events have damaged the reputation of Samaritans. However, given the importance of the work the charity does and the growing issues around poor mental health, we all share a collective interest in ensuring the charity is able to continue to provide vital support to all who need it wherever they may live."