Chad Varah
Awards & Honours
2
Awards Won
2
Honours
1
Records
Chad Varah's greatest accolade is the enduring impact of the Samaritans, which has grown into a global movement. He was honoured with the CBE and the Companion of Honour, but his real achievement lies in the countless lives saved and the model of compassionate listening he created. His work has been recognised with commemorative plaques and anniversary celebrations, and his influence continues to shape crisis support worldwide.
Awards
Honours & Distinctions
Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE)
Awarded for services to suicide prevention.
Companion of Honour (CH)
One of the highest civilian honours in the UK.
Records & Feats
Founded the world's first crisis hotline
In 1953, Chad Varah established the Samaritans, the first telephone crisis line in history, setting a global template for suicide prevention.