Samaritans Volunteer Completes 6,100-Mile Journey to Raise Awareness

A dedicated volunteer for the Samaritans charity, David Matthews, has reached the Bury St Edmunds branch during his ambitious 6,100-mile trek around the organisation’s centres. This journey aims to raise awareness and funds for the charity, which provides crucial support to individuals in distress or at risk of suicide. Matthews initially undertook this challenge in 2021, visiting over 200 branches in the UK and Ireland.

On January 21, 2025, Matthews was welcomed by the listening volunteers at the Bury St Edmunds and West Suffolk branch, Simon de Laat and Suzanne Green. His efforts have garnered significant recognition, culminating in being awarded an MBE in the 2025 King’s New Year Honours for his commitment to mental health advocacy. In addition to his walk, Matthews has published a book detailing his experiences and the impact of his journey.

Community Response and Impact

The visit left a positive mark on the local community. Anna Berridge, the branch director at Bury St Edmunds and West Suffolk, expressed her admiration for Matthews’s undertaking. “We were delighted to welcome David to our branch,” she said. “He’s taking on an incredible challenge in the name of an important cause. Samaritans’ vision is to see fewer people die by suicide, and David’s campaign to raise awareness of our support is essential. We wish him the best of luck with the rest of his walk.”

Matthews’s journey represents a significant effort to engage communities in conversations about mental health and the importance of support systems. The Samaritans charity has long been dedicated to preventing suicides and offering a listening ear to those in need. By traversing the country, Matthews aims to bring attention to the vital work done by the charity and encourage others to seek help when necessary.

A Journey of Hope and Awareness

The Listening Walk, as it is called, is more than just a physical challenge. It embodies a mission to promote understanding and compassion within society regarding mental health issues. Matthews’s walk serves as a reminder that help is available and that it is essential to talk openly about feelings and struggles.

As he continues on his path, Matthews hopes to inspire a culture of openness and support. His work is a testament to the power of individual action in addressing broader societal issues, particularly in mental health. Communities across the UK will undoubtedly rally behind his cause, recognising that each step taken is a step towards saving lives.

The Samaritans charity continues to play a pivotal role in providing support, and initiatives like Matthews’s journey are crucial in raising awareness of their mission. As he progresses through the remaining miles of his trek, the impact of his efforts will resonate across the regions he visits, fostering a dialogue about mental health and the importance of seeking help.