Arfon MS Siân Gwenllian has today launched a new Christmas fundraising appeal to support the Bangor (North West Wales) Samaritans, the local branch of the mental health charity based at Parc Menai, Bangor.
The campaign hopes to help sustain the essential, life-saving work of the Samaritans locally.
Rita of North West Wales Samaritans said: “Samaritans is here for anyone struggling to cope – day or night, 365 days a year. We hope to prevent people reaching crisis point through listening and exploring options. We believe that suicide is preventable.”
Siân Gwenllian said the campaign comes at a crucial time of year, as the festive season often intensifies pressures already felt by many.
“Christmas can be incredibly difficult for people,” she said. “Financial pressures, loneliness, grief, and the strain of the cost-of-living crisis can all feel much heavier at this time of year. That’s why mental-health support in the community is so important – and why the work of Bangor Samaritans is absolutely invaluable in Arfon.”
The Plaid Cymru MS highlighted the power of community fundraising and how local generosity has been important in the past.
“The incredible support my Christmas financial appeal has received over the years has made a difference for local food initiatives. We hope to replicate that success this Christmas by rallying behind Bangor Samaritans, whose volunteers offer a lifeline to those who need someone to listen.”
Last year, Siân Gwenllian was welcomed to the Bangor Samaritans office to mark 40 years of providing emotional support to local people. She said the visit left a lasting impression.
“It is thanks to the kindness of volunteers that people struggling this Christmas can find solace, compassion, and a safe space to talk,” she said. “Every contribution – large or small – strengthens the support available to people here in Arfon.”
To contribute to the appeal, visit this page.
If you’re struggling
Samaritans are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
Call 116 123 for English support, or 0808 164 0123 for Welsh – both free and confidential.
If you’d prefer not to talk on the phone, Samaritans also offer a 24-hour online chat service in English, ideal for those more comfortable typing than speaking.
