What services do the Welsh Government and local authorities commission from the Samaritans, and will these be impacted by the recent announcements of branch closures?
The Welsh Government recognises the important work the Samaritans do around suicide prevention and intervention. This includes providing confidential and anonymous emotional support through its listening service.
The Samaritans, alongside other third sector organisations, play a vital role in delivering the ambitions in our new 10-year Suicide Prevention and Self-harm Strategy.
We are aware of the proposed changes to the operational structure of Samaritans in the UK. However, we understand no decisions have been made. My officials continue to work closely with Samaritans Cymru to understand how any changes would impact the branch structure in Wales.