Reading Between the Lines, with Exeter, Mid & East Devon Samaritans

Samaritans volunteers in Exeter, Mid and East Devon have launched a new campaign called We Listen, letting people know they can call Samaritans whatever they’re going through.

Posters in local railway stations really do allow the public to read between the lines because they contain hidden messages where people claiming to be fine are not OK at all.

One says ‘I’m alright with being single I guess. It’s not ideal for the kids, but they seem to be coping’ - the real message being, ‘I’m not coping’.

Supported by Network Rail, the campaign aims to show that while it’s easy to hide your feelings, when someone really listens you’re more likely to open up and start working through problems. 

Good listeners can unlock the potentially damaging secrets some people keep.  Samaritans are there for everyone and they don’t just hear you, they really listen.

“It’s all too easy to turn away, ignore how you’re feeling, and put on a brave face.  But you don’t have to do that with us. Samaritans volunteers make time for you and really listen to you, because simply being listened to can help you put into words what’s really going on in your life and help you find a way through” says Helen Crossfield, director of the Exeter, Mid and East Devon branch.

“It might be the pressures of family, relationships, work, health, finances – or anything else. Talk to Samaritans for free from any phone, email us, text us or come into our branch in central Exeter and chat face to face.Whatever works best for you, we’ll listen and help you find a way through” she says.

Network Rail has been working with Samaritans to raise awareness of the charity’s emotional support services since 2010, along with Britain’s train operating companies and British Transport Police.  

“Thousands of people in Exeter and around Devon travel by rail and visit stations every day so we’re well placed to support the campaign and help spread the message that you don’t have to go it alone with your troubles when life is tough” explains Ian Stevens, programme manager at Network Rail.

You can call Samaritans for free any time from any phone on 116 123 (you don’t even need credit and this number won’t show up on your phone bill), email jo@samaritans.org, or visit www.samaritans.org/exeter