Samaritans confirms closure of branches in north of Scotland

Samaritans has confirmed the closure of four of its branches in Scotland.

The sites in Stornoway, Thurso, Orkney and Shetland are to shut as part of wider changes to the suicide prevention charity's UK operations.

Its branch in Elgin is to be merged with Inverness.

Neil Mathers, executive director for Scotland, said the charity was moving to fewer, larger branches to "strengthen volunteer capacity and provide more reliable support".

Mathers said callers would be able to reach a volunteer more quickly, particularly during times when callers wait too long for an answer.

He said: "Volunteers are at the heart of everything we do, and we are hugely grateful for the dedication and compassion shown by volunteers all over Scotland.

"We recognise that it is difficult for volunteers to hear their branch will close or change."

Mathers added: "Although the way we organise our listening service is changing, our commitment to communities remains the same.

"We will continue to be visible and active across Scotland, working with volunteers and partners to maintain local presence, outreach, and representation."