MANY people will be looking forward to spending time with family and friends over the festive season but sadly, not everyone is expecting to have a happy Christmas.

This is why Samaritans volunteers in Brierley Hill will be offering round the clock support for anyone who feels they need to talk in confidence.

Pam Preston, director of the branch, based in Albion Street, said: “For many the holiday period can be a thoroughly enjoyable time but for a startling amount of people this is not always the case.

"This time of year can bring up painful memories, or worsen difficult feelings often related to family or relationship issues, financial or health worries, to name just a few."

She continued: "The pressure to be having a good time or comparing your life with someone else’s can be too much, leaving many feeling they have no one to turn to.

“The important thing to remember is that no one needs to feel alone this Christmas – Samaritans volunteers are there to listen round the clock, every day of the year.

"We don’t judge and we don’t share what we’re told, we’re simply there to listen, provide emotional support and help people find a way through whatever’s getting to them."

Volunteer Lily Rogers, aged 33, who will be offering a sympathetic ear to Dudley residents over Christmas, said: “I’m happy to give up my time as I know that there a lot of people who, more than ever, need someone to turn to.

"Support services can often shut down at this time of year, or family and friends may be far away, leaving some people feeling more isolated than usual.

"Knowing I can provide vital support to people who might be having a difficult time is the best gift I can think of giving."

To find out more about the charity or to talk to volunteers, call 01384 78111 or visit www.samaritans.org/brierleyhill.