Gill Porter has been appointed as the new Director of Samaritans Isle of Man.

In the role, Gill will work with the local team and oversee the management of the Isle of Man branch, continue to encourage new volunteers and promote the service to callers.

Gill, Senior Manager in the Customer Services Team at Capital International Limited, said: “I am really honoured to have been made Director. Having been an active listener with the charity since 2013, I know just how challenging but, most importantly, how rewarding it can be.

“We have a fantastic team of 55 listening volunteers, seven new Samaritans undergoing their training and six support volunteers. I am looking forward to working with our volunteers to continue the good work we do by ensuring there is someone ready to listen to whoever needs to speak to us, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.”

During her three years with the charity, Gill has been a member of various teams, a supporter of many Samaritans events and acted as Deputy for Volunteer Support.

Former Director Tracey Fuller said: “Gill has given fantastic support to Samaritans and we are all looking forward to working with her as the new Director of the charity.

“Her previous management experience and her genuine caring nature will benefit Samaritans greatly.”

Les Shires, Chairman of the Samaritans Committee, said: “We are delighted to welcome Gill as Director. She is a really good listener, and has a genuine care for people and a passion for the charity.

“I wish Gill the best of luck in her new role, and I look forward to seeing the growth of Samaritans on the Island.”

Samaritans Isle of Man would not be able to deliver its services without volunteers. Information sessions are regularly hosted to give people the opportunity to find out more about what volunteering involves. Details for the next session will be announced soon.
Gill said: “I am very keen to raise awareness of the charity both in terms of volunteering and highlighting our existence to those in need. We rely on our volunteers to allow us to offer emotional support which is confidential and non-judgmental, and so we are always looking for new volunteers.

“Many people have heard of the Samaritans, and have an idea about what we do, but may not know that they can support our work by giving up just a few hours of their time.”