The Telford branch of The Samaritans is appealing for help with fundraising — and is looking for people to sponsor its work.

The charity provides confidential, non-judgmental emotional support 24 hours a day to those experiencing feelings of distress and despair, including those feelings that could lead to suicide.

Although all its volunteers give their time freely, the cost of running the branch, in King Street, Wellington, including phones, services, insurance, equipment and building maintenance, amounts to £24,000 a year.

This works out as £461 a week, £66 a day or £2.75 an hour.

To help raise funds the Samaritans is moving its charity shop to improved premises in New Street, Wellington, but in line with many charities it is still falling short of the income it needs.

So, the charity is seeking people who could sponsor its work, be it for an hour, a day, or longer.

A spokeswoman said: “People contact Samaritans every seven seconds for many reasons: relationship problems, health worries, financial problems, stress at work, loneliness and bereavement. We received over 5.3 million calls for help in 2007, but less than two per cent of our income is from Government and statutory sources.

“Samaritans need to make sure we are open to listen to as many people, particularly in this recession-hit economic climate.

“And for that we need your help. Please give a gift so we can be there for the people who have no-one else to turn to.”

For further details on sponsorship, or to make a donation (cheques payable to Samaritans in Telford), write to The Director, 115 King Street, Wellington, Telford, TF1 1NU.