FEARS of an annual spike in suicides next month have seen charities come forward to support those in need.

Volunteers at the Barrow branch of Samaritans are ready to help at one of their busiest times of the year, with January the peak time for suicides in Cumbria.

The most recent NHS study on suicide in the county showed there were 52 suicides for January compared to 30 in October. Cumbria also has one of the highest suicide rates in the UK.

Samaritans volunteers have been on hand over the festive season to help people explore their options, understand their problems better, or just to be there to listen.

Barrow Samaritan James said: "Volunteers at Samaritans are the backbone of our organisation with the dedicated work they do.

"They provide a safe and non-judgmental place for people in distress to talk openly about how the feel.

"It's amazing to provide the space for people who don't know how or get given the chance to talk about their feelings."

In 2016 in Barrow, eight people committed suicide, while a further 11 were reported in Copeland and 13 in South Lakeland.

The north west of England has remained in the top three regions for suicides since 1988 according to the Office for National Statistics.

The most recent figures show 661 suicides in 2016, with 75 per cent men.

Last month, national charity PAPYRUS Prevention of Young Suicide predicted more than 30 young suicides over the Christmas period.

The charity warn suicide remains the main cause of death in people under 35 years old.

Barrow's Samaritans branch are also appealing for new volunteers to come forward and help out in the new year, with training places available.

James said: "It's not for everyone but for those that do volunteer with us, find it incredibly humbling and providing help those who need some day or night very rewarding.

"Volunteering at Samaritans has changed the way I listen to others.

"Learning how to listen and support people who just need a few moments to say how they feel is something very powerful."

Call to arms as Mind volunteers prepare for festive period

VOLUNTEERS at Mind in Furness are also expecting a busy festive period, and have called for more helpers to get involved.

Peter Penman, 53, has been volunteering at Mind in Furness for the last 19 months and said it has made a real difference to his life.

He said: "I was living on my own after a divorce and it real gave me a sense of purpose. It can also help towards me getting a job in the future.

"I do reception twice a week, fundraise and carry out conservation work in the Lake District once a month with the Mind team.

"It’s really helped with my confidence and gets me out of the house and socialising with people which makes a real difference."

Fellow volunteer Julie Kissack, 61, has been supporting Mind in Furness for three years.

She said: "I get so much from helping people and seeing the smiles on their faces.

"I would say to anyone interested in volunteering to just come in and give it a try.

"It makes you happy because and you feel good about yourself and you’re giving something back."

Where to get help and support

If you need help over the festive period, or afterwards, there are a number of services on hand to offer help and support.

Samaritans in Barrow will be continuing to help through their dedicated phone line 01229 825 656 or on 116 123.

Alternatively, visit volunteers at their Barrow branch on Hartington Street.

Independent mental health information service Mindline Cumbria will also be helping those in need.

People from across the county are urged to use Mindline Cumbria on 0300 561 0000 to understand mental health issues and finding out where they can find help.