The Samaritans has launched a recruitment drive following an 80% increase in calls in Huddersfield.

Huddersfield Samaritans received 22,715 calls to their New North Parade centre last year compared to 12,515 in 2012 – an increase of 82%.

Some 67 volunteers take calls from people citing bereavements, relationship breakdowns, job losses and increasingly over the last seven years, money problems.

But the increase in calls isn’t necessarily a bad thing, says Anne who has been a volunteer listener at the centre for four years.

Anne said: “The good thing is people feel more able to call us.

“Also we have recently implemented a new system which means the chances of not getting through are greatly reduced.

“It is a large increase but mental health issues have a higher profile today and we’ve worked hard to reduce the stigma about talking about mental health issues.

“We’ve worked harder to make ourselves more visible and get ourselves out and about. For example, we’ve been working with the council, schools and GPs.”

But the increase means that volunteers at the centre are becoming increasingly stretched.

Anne said: “If you look at what’s happened economically it’s inevitable that people will have greater worries about the economy and their money.

“Having a greater volume of calls means we need more volunteers.”

Huddersfield Samaritans director Michael George added: “I’m so grateful to all of our volunteers at Huddersfield and I want to thank them all for their commitment and hard work.

“It’s great to see how they support people in ways that work well for our callers, on the phone, via email or visiting us in branch. We know that people who are struggling benefit from having a real person to connect with, someone who is trained to listen to them.

“Samaritans wouldn’t exist without the dedication of our volunteers. As well as listening on the helpline, there are lots of ways people can get involved with Samaritans, whether it’s fundraising, marketing, helping with admin or IT, or offering other valuable skills.

“We are always looking for new volunteers, so get in touch.”

For more about volunteering for Samaritans call: 08705 627282 or emailing volunteering@samaritans.org.