Figures from Norfolk County Council show that “Norwich has consistently had the highest or second highest suicide rates among the Norfolk lower tier local authority areas.” To offer their assistance and support, Norwich Samaritans has 180 volunteers who spend 20,000 hours per year at the other end of the ‘phone for those who need their support.
Mental health matters
Described by the organisers as potentially the “most ambitious crossover since Endgame.” The evening promises to be great fun. Hosts, Shameless Heaney & Dominic Clarke, devised the idea of this exciting gig as the cause is so important to them. Dominic explained: “I’ve struggled with my mental health for years and now that I’m in a healthy place I feel I should do my utmost to help others. In this case the best I can do is support the work of Samaritans who help those who need it most.”
The fundraiser aims to raise enough money to enable Norwich Samaritans to continue to train volunteers and provide them with the necessary skills to ensure that there is always an empathetic voice at the end of the ‘phone for those who contact them.
Local musicians and drag
Among the plethora of musicians playing on the night, expect to have your mind blown with “ hypnotic riffs and thunderous grooves,” through their psychobilly and garage rock combo, from Norwich based Snakemilk. Alternatively if your tastes run to a more gentle and melodic vibe, then look out for Amelia and the Lovefools. Or just relish the performance of The Binary Bandit, described as a “gaytime travelling cowboy.” If you want to see “a dynastic diva, who’s a silent but deadly force… drag hybrid,” then catch Nefarious de Vile.
Whatever your tastes, this event promises to be innovative, and “a night of frivolity & fundraising.”
Book tickets now
📅 When: Saturday, 22 March
📍 Where: Norwich Arts Centre, St Benedict’s Street, Norwich, NR2 4PG
🎟 Tickets: Reserve your spot
Tickets can be bought in advance online or on the door on the night and the centre opens at 7.00 pm.
Samaritans is a charity that offers support to anyone who is going through a crisis or struggling to cope. Volunteers are trained to listen without judgement or pressure. They’re there not just for times of crisis, but to help people who are going through a difficult time.
During 2023, around 23,000 people gave their time for Samaritans. As well as the trained listening volunteers who answered calls and those who ran the branches, over 1,300 people in prison volunteered as trained Listeners.
If you need someone to talk to, you can call 116 123 any time, day or night, 365 days a year. You could also email, write a letter, or call into a branch. You can find out more here. The Samaritans always needs volunteers, it’s something one of our writers found very rewarding.
None of us know when we might encounter someone who looks upset. Sometimes all it needs is a kind word and some small talk. The Samaritans have been running a campaign to encourage people to strike up a simple conversation if they think someone doesn’t look OK, at railway stations or other public places, while making sure they stay safe themselves. There’s information here.
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Celebrate World Down’s Syndrome Day with CIDDRG in Cambridge
Join the Cambridge Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities Research Group (CIDDRG) in marking World Down’s Syndrome Day with a special event at Lucy Cavendish College Café on Saturday, 22 March. This free, family-friendly drop-in event focuses on this year’s theme: “Improve Our Support Systems”, highlighting brain health, community engagement, and well-being for individuals with Down’s syndrome.
Expect an inspiring day of talks, interactive science activities, and creative exhibitions, featuring:
- Brain Health in Down Syndrome talk by Dr. Shahid (11:30 AM)
- Participant Panel Discussion (1:00 PM) – hear from individuals with Down’s syndrome
- Hands-on science experiments for all ages
- Crafts, games, and puzzles to enjoy
- Artwork exhibitions showcasing work from local artists with learning disabilities
- Research displays on the latest findings in Down’s syndrome studies
Refreshments will be available at the on-site café, and attendees can pick up CIDDRG and ABC-DS merchandise. The venue is fully accessible.
Book tickets now
📅 When: Saturday, 22 March
📍 Where: Lucy Cavendish College Café, Lady Margaret Road Cambridge CB3 0BU
🎟 Tickets: Free – Reserve your spot on Eventbrite
For more information, contact CIDDRG@medschl.cam.ac.uk. Spread the word and join us for a day of learning, fun, and celebration!
