BlackBerry helps Samaritans stay connected

Tuesday 22 November 2011

Research In Motion (RIM), the company behind the BlackBerry® brand, has donated 26 BlackBerry® smartphones to Samaritans in a move that will save the charity thousands of pounds, and is set to significantly improve the efficiency of internal communications. 

BlackBerry® smartphones will be used by Samaritans’ Trustees and Regional Representatives; all of whom provide their expertise and time free of charge, leading an 18,750 strong team of volunteers across the UK and Ireland.   .

Due to the enormity of their roles, representing up to 3000 volunteers each, Regional Representatives can be at times receiving up to 30 emails a day and several phone calls, whilst the Trustees are responsible for signing-off major decisions regarding the direction of the charity.

Tasked with juggling their leadership roles and their own volunteering with their day jobs, the BlackBerry® handsets will enable them to better manage their commitments and ensure information can be shared quickly and easily. It is also anticipated that the phone conferencing offered will save further funds, by cutting down on the costs associated with meetings. RIM has delivered free bespoke training to all Regional Representatives and Trustees that will be using their handsets.

Samaritans Chair, Stephen Hoddell, said: “Huge thanks to RIM for the donation of the BlackBerry smartphones. They will make a massive difference to Samaritans and how we operate, allowing information to cascade throughout the charity at a faster pace. In turn, this will speed up decision-making processes and save us valuable time.”

About Samaritans

Samaritans is here for anyone feeling down and depressed or struggling to cope. Our volunteers are available 24/7 to offer confidential support by phone: 08457 90 90 90 (ROI) 1850 60 9090, email: jo@samaritans.org, or face-to-face. Visit www.samaritans.org for details of your local branch.