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Students in distress will have immediate access to the Samaritans by remembering the new number - 0345 909090 - which was launched earlier this month.

The number is designed to avoid delays by referring callers to the nearest available telephone line in any of its 202 branches.

Emma Borton of the Samaritans said: "Nobody will need to look for a telephone directory, they will only pay for a local call. The number could be important in saving lives."

Many universities' nightlines work with local Samaritans.