Samaritans of Ballymena celebrates 50 years with refurbished branch and renewed commitment

(L-R) Joint Branch Director Mandy Higgins, Mayor of Mid and East Antrim Borough Council, Councillor Jackson Minford and Joint Branch Director Jed Murray unveiling a commemorative plaque for Sadie Strong.

Samaritans of Ballymena has marked its 50th anniversary with the unveiling of a fully refurbished branch on Mount Street, celebrating five decades of providing lifesaving emotional support to the local community.

Since opening its doors in 1974, the Ballymena branch has supported thousands of callers in distress. Almost 60 volunteers currently give their time to answer calls to the Samaritans’ national freephone helpline, 116 123, from the branch.

The milestone occasion reflects both a legacy of compassionate listening and a commitment to supporting future generations.

The major refurbishment, funded by a generous legacy from the late Sadie Strong, was officially launched at a celebration attended by volunteers past and present, community leaders, church representatives and local elected officials, including the Mayor of Mid and East Antrim Borough Council, Councillor Jackson Minford.

Reflecting on the importance of the event, Cllr Minford said:

“Events such as today’s are important and significant to council, whose vision for Mid and East Antrim is ‘to be a strong, vibrant, safe and inclusive community, where people work together to improve the quality of life for all, therefore I would like to take this opportunity to extend my thanks and congratulations to the members of the Samaritans Ballymena Branch for their vision, dedication and service to our local community.”

He continued:

“This year marks a significant milestone – 50 years of the Samaritans’ presence in Ballymena and the surrounding communities. It’s heartening to know that a few of the original volunteers from 1974 are still actively involved today – a testament to the dedication and belief in their mission.”

(L-R) Joint Branch Directors Jed Murray and Mandy Higgins with the Mayor of Mid and East Antrim Borough Council, Councillor Jackson Minford.

One of those original volunteers, Eleanor, shared her memories of joining the Samaritans half a century ago:

“Fifty years ago, when I joined Samaritans, the branch was just a little terrace house on Mount Street. Now, thanks to a legacy left to the Ballymena branch, we have a beautiful, modern, and busy centre for the volunteers who give their time to support people in distress or those who are simply lonely and need a friendly voice.”

She added:

“Joining Samaritans remains one of the best decisions I have ever made. I’ve formed strong bonds with my fellow volunteers, creating friendships that have lasted a lifetime. The training I received from Samaritans is second to none; it enabled me to grow and develop both professionally and personally.

“My one hope is that, during my time at Samaritans, I’ve been able to make a difference to the lives of the people who have reached out for support.”

The newly refurbished premises offer an improved, welcoming environment for volunteers, helping to enhance the care provided to those in crisis. The branch is part of Samaritans’ UK-wide network offering free and confidential emotional support 24/7 via 116 123.

Joint Branch Director Mandy Higgins said:

“This anniversary is not just a celebration of the past, but a commitment to the future. The recent refurbishment of our branch means we can now offer an even more welcoming and supportive space, both for our volunteers and those who reach out to us. We are incredibly grateful to everyone who has helped us reach this milestone.”

Her fellow Joint Branch Director, Jed Murray, echoed the sentiment:

“Marking 50 years is a proud and humbling moment for all of us at Samaritans of Ballymena. For five decades, our volunteers have been here, day and night, to listen, support, and be a lifeline for those in need.”

Watch: A video featuring Ballymena volunteer Lucy is available to view below:

Samaritans of Ballymena continues to welcome new volunteers and supporters to help maintain and grow this essential service.

Anyone interested in becoming a volunteer or offering support can find out more at www.samaritans.org/ballymena.

Samaritans can be contacted FREE 24/7 on 116 123 from any phone. This number won’t appear on phone bills. Alternatively, email jo@samaritans.org or visit www.samaritans.org for more information.

Samaritans is a charity. Public donations and volunteer time make the service possible.

Follow Samaritans NI on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram: @samaritansni