Staffordshire communities come together for World Suicide Prevention Day

Tragically 10 lives are lost to suicide each month across Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent. In recognition of World Suicide Prevention Day on 10^th September, a number of community events are taking place across the county to raise awareness of suicide prevention, reduce stigma and encourage meaningful conversations around suicide.

Survivors of Bereavement by Suicide (SOB) will be hosting a memorial event at Lichfield Cathedral on Sunday 10 September at 5.30pm for those who have lost loved ones to suicide. The event will feature a heartfelt rolling photo montage, songs from the Speak their Name Choir, survivor stories and poetry and music from Kate Loveridge. People can book their place for the event here.

Staffordshire Libraries are also extending a warm invitation to residents to join their coffee morning and places of welcome throughout the week in support of World Suicide Prevention Day. Residents will have the opportunity to enjoy a cup of coffee and engage in friendly conversations to help raise awareness and normalise conversations around mental health. Residents can find their nearest library here.

Julia Jessel, Cabinet Member for Health and Care at Staffordshire County Council said:

“Across Staffordshire and Stoke on Trent we're committed to preventing suicide. World Suicide Prevention Day is a vital opportunity to come together as a community and address the tragic issue of suicide. We must remember those we’ve lost and take proactive steps to prevent further tragedy.

Through events like the SOB memorial and coffee morning at our libraries, and our #TalkSuicide campaign, we can raise awareness of the importance of mental health and suicide prevention.”

In line with the Councils commitment to preventing suicide, the ongoing #TalkSuicide campaign aims to raise awareness of suicide and make it easier for people to talk about. The site provides a range of free support and advise for residents, equipping them with the knowledge and tools needed to support people in crisis. People can access free tools, resources and learn more about the #TalkSuicide Campaign here.

Support is available for anyone who is worried about their own, or someone else’s mental health:

1. North Staffordshire urgent mental health helpline: 0800 0 328 728 option 1 (covers Stoke-on-Trent, Newcastle-under-Lyme, Staffs Moorlands)

2. South Staffordshire urgent mental health helpline: 0808 196 3002 (covers Stafford, Stone, Rugeley, Cannock, South Staffs, Lichfield, Burton, Uttoxeter, Tamworth)

3. Samaritans: call 116 123 confidential crisis support helpline, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

4. Brighter Futures helpline: call 0808 800 2234. Text: 0786 002 2821. Email: staffordshire.helpline@brighter-futures.org.uk for a safe place to talk for people who are worried, stressed or low, or if they’re concerned about someone else.