Workshops and Breakout Sessions

Small group sessions designed to explore listening, community and the role of technology in Samaritans.
Practical, supportive, and grounded in real experience.

What to Expect

These workshops are small, facilitated group sessions where you can slow things down and explore real listening issues in a supportive space. They are designed to be practical, reflective and grounded in the day to day reality of listening.
They are not lectures. You will be encouraged to take part, share experiences and learn from each other.

How they work

  • Small groups with experienced facilitators
  • Limited places in each session
  • Pre-booked when you register online
  • No preparation or materials needed

Ceardlanna

Bearing human witness in listening

These workshops focus on presence, attentiveness, and emotional connection in listening work. They explore what it means to be there for callers and for one another, drawing on lived experience from across Samaritans services.
Ceardlanna sessions are reflective and supportive, creating space to think together about motivation, care, and the realities of listening in different contexts.

  • Let’s Talk About Artificial Intelligence (AI)  – A brief introduction to AI followed by a collaborative discussion where participants can share their thoughts on the potential opportunities and risks of introducing AI
  • Shake and Reset – Support after a caller that puts you outside your comfort zone.
  • Autism-Aware Listening: Practical Insights for Volunteers – This session builds on your existing listening skills and explores how autism may shape the way someone communicates, expresses emotion, or experiences stress. Together, we’ll consider small, thoughtful adjustments that can help conversations feel safer, clearer, and more supportive for autistic callers.
  • GAA Working in Partnership Together  – Find out more about the existing 10 year partnership and how branches can get involved with their local clubs.
  • Supporting people in prison – Providing connection, reassurance, and a reminder that those in prison overseas are not forgotten. 

Workshops run in parallel sessions across Saturday morning. You’ll be able to select your preferences during booking.