Posted on Monday 2nd December 2024
Councillor Paul Northcott, Damon Preece from Samaritans and Councillor Ann Edgeller picking up their poster and light from the library.
Staffordshire residents are being reminded that they are not alone during their darkest hours this Christmas and New Year.
Staffordshire County Council has once again partnered with Staffordshire Samaritans to light up windows and buildings green across the county on Saturday 21 December, the longest night of the year.
The campaign aims to remind everyone in need that the Samaritans are there for them, with their support line open 24/7. This year, people are being encouraged to display photos of their windows lit up green on social media using the hashtag #LightUpTheNight. People are also encouraged to share a brief positive story of how they have been helped or have helped someone in their time of need.
County council buildings, including Shire Hall in Stafford, will be illuminated green, and other organisations are being urged to join in by lighting up their building and sharing social media messaging in support of the campaign. A limited number of posters and tealights will be available for pick-up at local libraries starting Monday, 2nd December.
Councillor Ann Edgeller, Mental Health Champion at Staffordshire County Council, said:
“The festive season can be a particularly tough time for many, with personal challenges often feeling more intense.
“Whether it's family issues, financial stress, or the grief of losing a loved one, these struggles can be overwhelming. Samaritans volunteers provide an invaluable service, ensuring that those in need always have someone to talk to.
“Lighting up the longest night is a powerful gesture to show that support is always available. It’s a reminder that no one has to face their difficulties alone, and help is just a call away.”
Councillor Paul Northcott, Cabinet Support Member for Public Health and Integrated Care at Staffordshire County Council, added:
“By lighting up the longest night, we are sending a powerful message of support to those who need it most.
“We’ll be lighting up the Shire Hall building in support and we are encouraging other organisations to do the same by sharing messages on social media and lighting up their own buildings or windows.”
Local Samaritans Volunteer, Damon Preece said:
“We would really encourage people to be reaching out when they feel the little grey clouds gathering and not waiting till they change into big dark ones. Talking through your difficulties early can make such a difference.”
One Staffordshire business taking part in the campaign this year is Wincanton Screwfix Distribution Centre. Network Communications Manager, Lee Carnighan said:
“For many, Christmas is a time to celebrate with friends and family but for some it can be an incredibly lonely time. That's why this campaign is so important.
“We want to send a message to our colleagues and the wider community that there is support available if you need it, 24/7 – even over the festive period. No one needs to feel alone this Christmas.”
People who want to participate by shining a green light in their window and displaying a poster on the longest night can find out more on the campaign webpage.
Anyone feeling lonely or facing difficulties can contact Samaritans for free at any time from any phone on 116 123, even from a mobile without credit, and the number won’t show up on their phone bill.
People can also find out more about free Suicide Awareness and Prevention training on the Doing Our Bit website.