Omagh Samaritans Branch Closes After Over 50 Years, Prompting Calls for Answers

The Omagh branch of the Samaritans, a charity focused on suicide prevention, has closed its doors after more than 50 years of service. The charity cited "circumstances beyond anyone's control" as the reason for the "difficult decision" to shut down the branch, which had been a community staple since its founding. The closure has prompted calls for "answers" from local representatives.

The Samaritans, established in 1953, connects individuals struggling with trained volunteers, estimating it receives a call for help every 10 seconds. The Omagh branch reportedly had around 20 active volunteers, many of whom had been involved since its early days.

This closure comes amid a broader context of service consolidation for the charity. Last year, reports indicated that numerous branches had raised concerns about a plan to close over 100 branches across the UK and Ireland, with the Samaritans stating that maintaining more than 200 branches was "not sustainable" and impacted their ability to provide optimal service.

However, a spokesperson for the Samaritans told BBC News NI that the Omagh branch's closure is unrelated to this wider consolidation program, which is not currently reviewing services in Northern Ireland. The Omagh branch had suspended face-to-face support in March 2020, aligning with the reduction of services by all branches during COVID-19 restrictions.

"Samaritans of Omagh has been a valued part of Samaritans for more than 50 years, and we recognize the contribution made by successive trustees, directors, leaders, and all volunteers," a charity spokesperson stated. "Sadly, and due to circumstances beyond anyone's control, the difficult decision was reached to close the branch."

The charity assured that its national listening service remains accessible to individuals in Tyrone and across Northern Ireland. Help is available 24/7, 365 days a year by calling 116 123 or visiting samaritans.org.

Volunteers from the Omagh branch have been offered support, including one-to-one calls regarding relocation and support meetings. Some volunteers have already begun the process of transferring to other locations. Any proceeds from future property sales at the Omagh site will be reinvested into Samaritans services throughout the UK and Ireland.