Resistance to change in the lifesaving work of the Samaritans | Letters

The article discusses the Samaritans' plans to close half of its branches and move volunteers to 'regional hubs', with some working from home. Readers have responded to this proposed change, with some expressing resistance. The article highlights the perspective of a current Samaritan volunteer, who argues that the charity's shift to larger, more modern branches should not be characterized as a "call centre" or "regional hub". The volunteer notes that they have been taking calls from their former front bedroom, which has room for only two workstations, and emphasizes the importance of the Samaritans' lifesaving work. The article suggests that some readers who work in comfortable, modern offices may not consider the Samaritans' proposed changes to be an inhuman "call centre" environment. The article presents a nuanced discussion of the Samaritans' plans and the varied perspectives of its volunteers and readers.