We were delighted to see our Assistant Provincial Grand Masters, W.Bro. John Porter and W.Bro. Kevin Reaney, together with our Provincial Deputy Grand Secretary, W.Bro. David Basger and W.Bro. T Stewart Mills our Provincial Grand Charity Steward, present a donation on behalf of the East Lancashire Mark Benevolent Fund to the Blackburn branch of the Samaritans this week.

The £11,386.44 grant has funded the installation of a stairlift, making every floor of the centre accessible to visitors, volunteers, and staff alike.

We were warmly welcomed and shown around by Paula Fairbairn, Director; John Littlewood, Corporate Fundraiser; Sue Clarke, Treasurer; and Margaret Jepson, Fundraiser, who shared more about the vital work the Samaritans do day in, day out to offer confidential emotional support to anyone in distress.

The Blackburn branch is part of a national network that has been listening for more than 70 years, ensuring people have a safe space to talk about what they’re going through. By improving accessibility, this project will help ensure that no one is excluded from reaching or delivering the help and support offered by the Samaritans.

It’s a privilege to support an organisation making such a profound difference to people’s lives across our community.