A former volunteer with Samaritans is taking on the London Marathon this month, raising vital funds at a time of growing demand for the charity’s support.

Alice Cooper, 28, of Matlock, who previously volunteered with Chesterfield Samaritans, will run the 26.2 mile race on Sunday, April 26 in aid of Samaritans and Bluebell Wood Children's Hospice.

Her motivation is deeply personal.

Alice said: “In 2015, I lost a dear friend, Emily Turnbull, to suicide. It was an immense shock to everyone who knew and loved her. Emily was beautiful, loud and confident - she had heaps of friends and an ambitious life plan. But the truth is, you never truly know what someone may be going through deep down.”

placeholder image — Alice and Emily in 2015.

Emily, 16, was a pupil at Highfields School in Matlock and described by the school as ‘a lovely girl and valued member of the school community.’

Alice later went on to volunteer with Samaritans - an experience that shaped her decision to give back.

She added: “I fell in love with the power of what they do - simply listening, without judgement, built on compassion and understanding. It’s something we could all learn from - to listen more, judge less, and look out for one another.”

During her time as a listening volunteer, she supported people through some of their most difficult moments.

Alice taking part in Tissington Half Marathon, January 2026.

“Sometimes the most meaningful thing we can offer someone is just our time, our attention, and a judgement-free ear. That’s a truly irreplaceable skill,” she said.

Now, after being unable to run for more than two minutes, Alice has trained for over a year to reach the start line.

She said: “I’ve never really been a sporty person — definitely never a runner. I started Couch to 5K and never looked back. The journey has taught me so much about myself and my resilience.”

Balancing training alongside full-time work has been a challenge but Alice hopes her fundraising will help Samaritans continue to be there for those who need support.

Alice said: “If you are struggling, please don’t hesitate to reach out. You don’t have to be in crisis or have the perfect words. Samaritans are there simply to listen. You deserve to be heard, and you don’t have to go through difficult moments alone.”

Gaby Vauclair, Director at Chesterfield Samaritans, said: “We’re so proud of Alice for taking on the London Marathon in support of Samaritans. As a former volunteer and having lost a good friend to suicide, she knows first-hand the difference it can make to have someone there to listen without judgement. This year marks 55 years of Chesterfield Samaritans, and we’re needed more than ever. Last year alone we supported over 5,000 people, and demand continues to rise. Fundraising like Alice’s helps make sure we can continue to be there, 24 hours a day, for anyone who needs us.”

The charity is marking its 55th anniversary this year. Alice is encouraging people to support her fundraising and help raise awareness of Samaritans’ work.

You can support Alice’s fundraiser here: https://samaritanscommunity.enthuse.com/pf/alice-cooper