CHRISTMAS is a time for family and making happy memories.

It is a day most of us count down to with a keenness to celebrate togetherness.

But for some who are lonely or grieving or simply overwhelmed by the expectation to be happy, it can be the worst day of the year and the countdown is filled with dread rather than expectation.

Colchester Samaritans, which has 130 volunteers, supports up to 80 callers a day, even on Christmas Day.

Gaynor Bell has just taken over as director, a voluntary position, having been a listening volunteer for the past 15 years.

She said the perfect idea of Christmas can seriously affect people’s mental health.

“We are all bombarded at Christmas time with images of the perfect Christmas – and whilst it is, of course, a joyous time for so many, it’s easy to lose sight of what’s really going on in our own and other’s lives,” she said.

“Problems in our relationships, finances, health, feelings of loneliness and isolation - all of these issues and feelings can be heightened at this time of year.

“Very often we try to hide these things from friends or family, which can then make us feel even more alone and anxious.

“There is always a Samaritans volunteer available to talk to.

“All of our volunteers are amazing and give up so much of their time to ensure we can be there for anyone struggling with anything that’s going on in their lives at any time of the year.

“If you don’t feel you can talk to anyone close to you, Samaritans provides a safe place to talk any time you like, in your own way – about whatever’s getting to you.

“You don’t have to be suicidal to contact us.”

Two thirds of Colchester’s volunteers are what are called listening volunteers who directly support callers via phone calls, texts, emails and face-to-face, both in the branch and out in the community.

The remaining third are support volunteers who keep the service going through publicity, fundraising, running the monthly book fairs, and looking after IT.

Gaynor said: “I know from personal experience how having someone who will listen when you are going through a tough time is so valuable.

“I have been very lucky over the years to have great friends and family who I could turn to but that is not the same for many people for many reasons and Samaritans plays such an important role in providing a safe place to turn to.

“Of course, our core work is answering the phone, emails and text messages as well as receiving face-to-face visitors at the centre in Walsingham Road, however, we also have our Sam Van which we take out into the community.

“Every Thursday morning we go to Clacton, Walton or Jaywick where volunteers are available for anyone to come along and have a chat in what is effectively a pop-up branch.

“We also make great use of the van attending events throughout the year in our area – raising awareness and much needed funds.

“We are mindful for some people in our community, the usual ways to contact Samaritans can be difficult and so we are keen to expand that pop-up service and so will be looking at possible new venues and times.”

To contact the Samaritans, you can call free any time, from any phone on 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org.