Google has launched a link-up with Samaritans, a confidential emotional support service for anyone in the UK and Ireland, displaying the charity’s helpline number in response to UK search queries relating to suicide.

Any individual who enters the word “suicide” or the phrase “commit suicide” will now see a red telephone icon at the top of their search results. This icon includes contact details for Samaritans.The service, which is designed to be more prominent than advertisements, was first introduced in the United States in April (see related article on LA Times Blog). Google says it aims to connect people who are depressed, suicidal or in distress to information that could help them seek advice and support.

According to Google’s UK chief, Matt Brittin:  “People turn to the internet for information and advice all the time. We hope that by adding a highly visible link on searches relating to suicide, Google can help guide those who are vulnerable, distressed or suicidal to the renowned expertise and support service offered by Samaritans.”

Samaritans called this new search feature a “positive step”. “The internet is a rapidly expanding phenomenon that allows people to access huge amounts of information, much of which is helpful but some of which can occasionally be dangerous,” said chief executive Catherine Johnstone. “It is therefore important that vulnerable and distressed people are steered towards safe places such as Samaritans.”[audio:http://hospitalstay.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/07-Suicide.mp3|titles=Suicide]

Additional Sources: BBC News; The Official Google Blog