| Samaritans of Singapore | |
|---|---|
| Abbreviation | SOS |
| Motto | To be an available lifeline to anyone in crisis. |
| Formation | 1 Dec 1969 |
| Type | Non-profit organisation |
| Purpose/focus | SOS provides confidential 24-hour emotional support by trained volunteers to people in crisis, thinking of suicide or affected by suicide. |
| Region served | Singapore |
| Website | www.SOS.org.sg |
Samaritans of Singapore, also known as SOS, established on 1 December 1969, is a non-profit and non-religious organisation, with the mission of providing 24-hour confidential, emotional support to people in crisis, thinking of suicide or affected by suicide.[1]
SOS is a member of the National Council of Social Service and is supported by the Community Chest. SOS is also affiliated to Befrienders Worldwide, American Association of Suicidology (AAS) and International Federation of Telephonic Emergency Services (IFOTES).[1]
The SOS work and services revolve around suicide prevention, intervention and post-vention.[1]
The SOS operate a 24 hour hotline, manned by volunteers. They provide emotional support to callers who are in distress or suicidal. On average, SOS receives more than 100 calls every day.[2]
In 2003, SOS started an Email Befriending service, to provide support for individuals who prefer to write about their problems, rather than talking on the telephone. Emails receive a response within 48 hours.[3]
SOS also provides face-to-face counselling sessions, conducted by professional staff.[4]
SOS started a suicide bereavement support group in 2003, aiming to provide emotional support to those who have lost a loved one to suicide).[4] The support group, known as Healing Bridge, offers a supportive environment for the survivors to meet and talk about their suicide grief. They also share and receive comfort from each other.
In March 2005, SOS in collaboration with the Singapore Police and the Coroner’s Court set up a new initiative called LOSS – or Local Outreach to Suicide Survivors. This programme helps family members cope with the immediate aftermath of a suicide. Emotional support is provided via telephone calls; counselling sessions and home visits may also be arranged.[4]