Samaritans’ current communication system is a patchwork of outdated technologies which don’t connect with each other. This fragmented system urgently needs replacing because it cannot cope with the demand for our service. Last year 280,000 calls received an engaged tone when, in most instances, there was a volunteer waiting to listen.

We will create a pioneering new contact system to ensure those in need who call don’t receive an engaged tone because of outdated technology but get through first time, every time. It will do this by bringing together our calls, emails and text services under one umbrella, guaranteeing that our listening volunteers have the best tools to carry out their vital work.