Castlebar Samaritans call for public buildings to be lit up green for Longest Night

Samaritans in Castlebar are calling on the public to support its Longest Night campaign which reminds those struggling to cope that its helpline is open during their darkest hours this Christmas.

Businesses and landmarks are being urged to light up in green on Saturday, December 21 – the Winter Solstice - to show people Samaritans are there for them during the long dark nights. Members of the public can show their support by lighting a candle on the night or turning their lights green. Last year, almost 200 sites supported the campaign.

Samaritans want to remind anyone who is finding the festive season difficult to reach out and not struggle in silence.

Almost 30,000 calls for help were answered last December, with mental health concerns, loneliness and isolation, and family and relationship issues among the main concerns raised by callers.

Images can be shared on social media by tagging Samaritans Ireland on Facebook, X, Instagram, TikTok, or LinkedIn, using the hashtags #SamaritansLongestNight. All information is available here.

Anyone in need of emotional support can call Samaritans anonymously on freephone 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.ie. Volunteers will be on duty throughout the holidays, including Christmas Day.