Dozens of people joined a Hope Walk in Wolverhampton city centre to mark the end of Suicide Prevention Month.
The event, last Thursday, was organised by the Wolverhampton Suicide Prevention Stakeholder Forum & WVSC as an opportunity to spread the word that there is help and support available to people in the city who are feeling overwhelmed by life, are worried about someone else in that position, or who have been bereaved by suicide.
During the 90 minute walk, participants spoke to members of the public and visited organisations based around the city centre that offer help and support for people experiencing feelings of distress or despair.
Ian Darch CEO of WVSC said: “The role of voluntary orgs in helping to reduce suicide levels is crucial as so many people turn to them in difficult times. The walk for hope has served to highlight the challenge & WVSC is very proud to have worked alongside so many brilliant orgs in making it such a success”.
Forum trustee Clare Dickens said: “We need everyone in Wolverhampton to know that suicidal thoughts are a sign to change something in their life, not to end their life, that it is possible to recover with the right support, and that their lives matter.”
People who are having a difficult time or who are worried about someone else are encouraged to contact:
- The Samaritans on 116 123 or visit Samaritans.
- Papyrus (for the prevention of suicide in the under 35s) on 0800 0684141, text 07786 209697 from 9am-midnight or visit Papyrus.
- Kaleidoscope Plus Group Suicide Bereavement Support Group, .
The Black Country Partnership NHS Trust’s mental health support line is available to residents of all ages who are experiencing mental distress and require urgent support, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, by calling 0800 008 6516.
Wolverhampton Suicide Prevention Stakeholder Forum represents a range of key organisations and charities within the city, supported by the City of Wolverhampton Council’s Public Health team, which all work closely together in order to prevent suicide.
📷 City of Wolverhampton Council.