THE Samaritans are highlighting the plight of young people on the verge of suicide, writes GEORGE CHILDREN.

Last year, four under-25s took their own lives in the Herefordshire area.

Now the organisation is running an awareness campaign entitled 'Youth Matters - A Cry for Help', which aims to increase understanding of youth self-harm, or attempted suicide.

People who self-harm cut, burn or bruise themselves, or take an overdose, as a way of coping with painful emotions, say The Samaritans.

An opinion poll has shown that, while almost half the population know someone who has self-harmed, many are unaware of the scale of the problem or what they can do to help.

They tend to view self-harm as 'selfish' or 'stupid'. In 20 years, the number of young men under 25 who self-harm has nearly doubled.

A spokesperson for the Hereford branch said: "The survey highlights the vital work which needs to be done in educating the general public about young people's emotional needs.

"Our 24-hour listening service is always available to young people who are finding it difficult to cope with life.

"We urge family and friends to be sensitive to young people's feelings and to offer a listening ear whenever they can."

Hereford Samaritans reveal that calls generally have nearly doubled in the last two decades.

Last year, more than 16,000 people contacted the Hereford branch, in Berrington Street, by telephone, letter and in person.

A vital part of volunteers' work is giving talks to youth organisations and to schools and colleges.

Teachers at several local schools have praised the way they have encouraged pupils to open up and share their feelings.

The awareness week has involved a number of fundraising events.

The organisation's van was in Corn Square, Leominster, last Saturday and will be in High Town, Hereford, on Saturday.

Anyone wishing to donate or thinking of becoming a volunteer should telephone 01432 269000.