Cyprus Samaritans

We have 4 freecall listening centres open from 1600 to 2400 (2 x 4hour shifts) everyday of the year. Manned by volunteer trained listeners with 2 listeners available on each 4 hour shift. We also have an email facility and can accomodate face to face meetings if required. Totally confidential and open to all (apart from under 18s because of Cypriot law)

What it sets out to do

Listen to anyone in mental anguish

Who it reaches

Freephone number available to all in Cyprus. Email available world wide

Who runs it

We are totally self funCyprus Charity but provide the funding for our service by running 3 charity shops.

What seems to make it work

All our listeners are volunteers and want to help people with mental anguish. We also have shop volunteers who man the 3 charity shops and provide the funding for the charity to run. We also encourage both English and Greek Speakers who cater for the majority of the Cyprus population

What gets in the way

Providing enough funding to pay for the 4 listening centres, 3 shops and the freephone helplines. We need approximately €60000 per year to function.

It is satisfying to think that the organisation can function without external funding whilst also providing a service to the those without a lot of money including refugees.

How it is funded

Totally self funded as above. There are no paid posts in the organisation

Moving it somewhere else

Yes depending on participation from volunteers