Armed Forces veteran helpline being piloted in Scarborough
It's so veterans, families and those currently serving have someone to talk to
Last updated 5th Jul 2023
A dedicated helpline is being set up in Scarborough so those in the Armed Forces and veterans have someone to talk to.
It is a pilot and is a national scheme which is being supported by the town's branch.
The Samaritans say it is to offer support, as well as to families, when servicemen and woman have to go and do their duty.
Dorree Gallie is a listening volunteer at the Samaritans of Scarborough and is a veteran herself and said: "I think it's needed everywhere. When we think about the families, you may have a husband who's going abroad and he may be away for nine months at a time, how can families feel when that happens? They may need some support.
"Veterans can leave the services and have all sorts of things. It's getting away from military life where you've been told what to do all the time, and then you're kind of on your own having to find your way through.
"Lots of people have PTSD and that's another issue. Lots of things that go on in people's lives where they may have no-one to talk to, and I'm sure that's where we'll come in very useful with our special, dedicated veterans helpline."
People can ring the Samaritans of Scarborough if they want to get the help on 116 123 or visit their website.