The Samaritans Helpline

Witness History: Archive 2013 - Ein Podcast von BBC World Service

In November 1953 an English clergyman set up the first telephone helpline for people considering suicide. The Reverend Chad Varah began the pioneering service from a room in his own church house.

Today, the Samaritans receive more than five million calls every year in the UK alone. There are more than 100 branches overseas.

(Photo: The Reveren Chad Varah at the entrance to his office at the church of St Stephen, Wallbrook, City of London. Credit: PA)

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