Wandsworth Green Plaque unveiling: Chad Varah (1911-2007)

Rev Dr Chad Varah (1911-2007) founded the Samaritans so that those in despair would have someone to talk to.

He had the germ of an idea as a young vicar officiating the funeral of a girl who had ended her life after starting her period. Not knowing what periods were, the young girl thought she had somehow contracted a terrible disease and was too distraught and embarrassed to ask for help. The experience made Varah vow to ensure that young people had adequate sex education. He extended this approach to young couples visiting him for pre-wedding counselling.

As well as a vicar and founder of the Samaritans, he was also a writer and an editor. He lived at 68 North Side Wandsworth Common, then the Vicarage of St Paul's. We are delighted that his daughter, Felicity Varah-Harding OBE, who lived in the house and is now Honorary President of the Samaritans, will be joining us.

Funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund as part of Wandsworth's London Borough of Culture year.