A MUCH-RESPECTED Cornish charity that is at the heart of mental health support and reducing the number of deaths by suicide celebrated the completion of a major capital development of its premises, amounting to £1.3-million.

The Samaritans of Cornwall at Truro started work last year on the building owned by the charity on Treyew Road in Truro, which was no longer fit for purpose.

The charity, which is run entirely by volunteers with no paid members of staff, recognised significant changes to the building were needed to improve accessibility for all and therefore ensure the continued operation of the charity.

Sue Wilkins, voluntary director of the Samaritans of Cornwall at Truro explained: “Samaritans of Cornwall has helped hundreds of thousands of people, for more than half a century, thanks to the dedication of committed volunteers who deliver its services from the building in Truro.

“The charity purchased the property over 50 years ago, but the layout being over many floors meant it was not accessible to all and thus did not meet the needs of the charity.

“An exciting but challenging journey to raise the funds necessary to make essential and major structural changes was undertaken so the building better-serves the charity, whilst adding a much-needed new Training Centre building.

Sue continued: “An independent charity, Samaritans of Cornwall receives no funding from a national office, or statutory funding, historically relying on income raised by the wonderful stall at Par Market – again run entirely by dedicated volunteers - and fundraising activities undertaken to meet running costs.

“A capital project costing over £1-million was a huge challenge, but one that the charity rose to, thanks to donations and the support of significant grant. We cannot thank supporters enough - they have enabled us to transform our facilities.”

The charity celebrated the completion of the works at a grand opening on Saturday, May 3 which was attended by over 100 people, many of whom have been involved in delivering the project.

The Right Reverend the Bishop of Truro, Hugh Nelson, cut the ribbon and said: “The new Cornwall Samaritans operations base in Truro is a wonderful space for them to continue their work of compassionate listening. It was a privilege to be there to cut the ribbon, declare it open and thank all the volunteers who make Samaritans happen.”

The development works will ensure accessibility to an energy efficient, low maintenance, cost efficient Branch, ensuring expenses are controlled and that funds raised are focussed on the provision of service; a new Training Centre will enable greater partnership working with other organisations embedded in Cornwall, as well as being available to other charitable ventures for private hire.

The changes and accessibility of the building will help the charity to attract new volunteers, increasing numbers and diversity in all areas of Samaritans of Cornwall’s work, enabling the charity to open more hours, embrace new technology and offer more outreach into the community.

To support Samaritans of Cornwall, book its Training Centre, or for further information, email [email protected] or visit www.samaritans.org/truro