Working with the Samaritans is one of Trevor’s ‘proudest achievements’
LISTENING to people was the most rewarding part of the job, according to a man who worked for over two decades with a charity which offers emotional support.
Trevor Hobbs (74), from Thurso, last week retired from his position at the Caithness Samaritans branch after 24 years.
Staff at the organisation thanked Mr Hobbs for all his work by holding a special presentation at the Pentland Hotel in Thurso.
As he looked back at his time with the Samaritans, Mr Hobbs said that he hoped he was able to lend an ear to people who needed one.
“At times it could be distressing, he said. “But at other times it was very rewarding. It was a position which could pull on the heartstrings.
“What surprises volunteers is how open people in Caithness can be. You find out that they have the same problems as anywhere else.”
Originally from Swindon, Mr Hobbs moved to Thurso after he married his wife Elizabeth, who is originally from Halkirk, in 1960.
He moved to the area to work as a safety technician at Dounreay and it was during his time there he got involved with the charity.
“One of my colleagues asked me if I would be interested in working for the Samaritans,” he said. “I jokingly replied that I struggle to sort myself out!
“I worked as a staff representative at the company and my colleague said he was impressed with the way I listened to the people. I went to an interview to discuss the position and it all took off from there.”
As well as working as a volunteer at the Thurso office, he was also chairman of the Caithness branch for a number of years.
He said that the volunteers do vital work for people in the Far North and urged people to become involved.
“It is basically listening therapy,” he said. “You are on the other end of the line to be there for people who need someone to talk to.”
“Where they may think they have nowhere to turn, you can help them look at another perspective.”
He added: “Working for the Samaritans is one of my proudest achievements.”
Caithness Samaritans branch chairwoman Catherine Simpson said that his contribution to the organisation has proved to be invaluable. “Trevor has given up many hours of his time to help the Caithness branch,” she said. “Every member of the branch turned up to Trevor’s leaving do which shows how much he was respected and liked. He has acted as chairman twice and his presence will be greatly missed.”