The Manx branch of the Samaritans has been selected as the Manx Co-op Charity of the Year for 2020.

As part of the partnership, all 10 Co-op food stores in the island will have Samaritans collection boxes on display in-store to raise funds for the charity, which has been providing a helpline in the Isle of Man for 40 years, offering emotional support to those in need.

In addition, staff from Co-op branches will offer further support by organising fundraising events such as raffles and quizzes to coincide with key dates in the Samaritans’ 2020 calendar.

There is also the opportunity for the charity to apply for ’The Big Co-op Payout’, an initiative where one per cent of what Co-op members spend on selected branded products and services goes to local causes through its Local Community Fund.

Lesley Moughtin, from the Isle of Man branch of Samaritans, said: ’We are reliant on the generosity and support of local organisations to help us provide the vital services for those who require our help, so to be named as the Manx Co-op’s charity of the year is really touching.

’As a brand with such a large local presence we have no doubt that this partnership will go a long way in raising much-needed funds and awareness for Isle of Man Samaritans. We say a big thank you to the Manx Co-operative.’

Stefanie Faragher from the Manx Co-op added: ’Supporting the local communities that we work in is so important to us, so we’re delighted to partner with Isle of Man Samaritans in 2020. We admire the dedication and commitment of their volunteers and the 24/7 lifeline they offer to those in need of emotional support.

’We look forward to working with Samaritans in 2020 and hope to raise lots of money over the next 12 months.’

Samaritans offers confidential judgement-free emotional support 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

The number is 116 123 and it is free to call.

Alternatively, you can email [email protected].