The Samaritans are currently testing a European wide free-to-caller number for people in emotional distress - the telephone number is 116 123.
In order for the test to be effective, the facility will be confined initially to number defined areas around the country. This will enable caller-trends/patterns to be monitored and evaluated.
A limited amount of advertising is at present been undertaken (including Local Radio) and in addition the promotion of this free to caller number to access Samaritan service, will rely heavily on the goodwill of community based agencies and organisations.