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emotional time

Counselling service Connect extending its hours over Christmas

“Christmas can be an emotional time for people and this creates a greater demand for counselling and support services.”

THE TELEPHONE COUNSELLING service, Connect, will open every evening from today until Sunday January 4.

The free service for adults who were abused in childhood will open from 6-10pm each day.

Connect Manager Theresa Merrigan said that Christmas can be an emotional time for people and this creates a greater demand for counselling and support services.

Connect has recorded a 22% increase in individual callers to date this year and expects to receive about 10,000 calls by the end of the year.

People can call Connect for free at 1800 477 477. Callers will get to speak with a professionally trained counsellor who can listen and provide support.

From the Northern Ireland and the UK people can call 00800 477 477 77. Connect’s normal opening hours are 6-10pm Wednesday to Sunday.

Read: More male abuse survivors in rural Ireland are seeking help>