Samaritans welcomed inspirational duo Jonny Benjamin MBE and Neil Laybourn from Channel 4’s ‘Stranger on the Bridge’ documentary at its AGM last week.

Jonny and Neil told volunteers the thought-provoking story of how they met and how it changed their lives forever.

In 2008 Jonny, having just been diagnosed with schizoaffective disorder, attempted to take his own life by jumping off Waterloo Bridge in London. His life was saved by then stranger Neil Laybourne who talked him down from the edge.

Six years later Jonny partnered with mental health charity Rethink Mental Illness to launch a campaign called #FindMike, a nickname given to the man who had helped him, to find Neil and thank him for saving his life.

The campaign also encouraged people to talk more openly about mental health and dispel stigma around the topic.

Since their reunion the duo have become mental health awareness campaigners and have positively impacted the lives of many others. The pair ran in this year’s London Marathon to raise money for Heads Together, the mental health charity fronted by the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and Prince Harry, and met the young royals.

Gill Porter, Director of Samaritans Isle of Man, said: ‘We were humbled to welcome Jonny and Neil and hear their inspiring and encouraging story. Their story is an emotional one but it shows how a simple gesture can have just a hugely positive effect on someone’s life.

‘It proves just how vital the work of Samaritans is. Having someone there to listen and offer judgement-free advice can be a massive help when people are at their most vulnerable. If you are struggling with your mental wellbeing Samaritans volunteers are here to help. Talk to us any time you like, in your own way, and off the record – about whatever’s getting to you. Simply call 116 123.’

Samaritans Isle of Man is part of a network of branches throughout the UK and Ireland which offer a listening ear to callers from near and far.

She added: ‘If you’ve been inspired by Jonny and Neil’s story please get in touch to learn more about volunteering with Samaritans or pop along to our next information session which will be held 12 July at 5 Victoria Place, Douglas, at 7pm.’