Panel looking for members
NICOLA FINDLAY
A mental health charity is inviting people in South Lanarkshire with lived experience of suicide to apply to take part in a new national panel.
The Lived Experience Panel will provide an important platform for people with lived experience of suicide to share their valuable insights and experiences by working alongside members of the Scottish Government’s National Suicide Prevention Leadership Group.
Those who have previously attempted suicide, experienced suicidal thoughts, or have lost a loved one to suicide are encouraged to apply to be on the panel.
SAMH is working with the Scottish Government and partners Support in Mind, Penumbra, and Samaritans Scotland to deliver the Panel.
Billy Watson, chief executive of SAMH, said: “We have long history of supporting people and families affected by suicide.
“We’ve campaigned vigorously to ensure anyone affected by suicide can get effective support now and in the future, and we believe that services which are shaped by the people who use them will deliver the best results.
“That’s why we’re so pleased to be supporting the development of a Lived Experience Panel.
“It’s a great opportunity for people who want to help make a difference to thousands of people’s lives.
“The Panel should be a true representation of our society, so I encourage those from all backgrounds to join us and help make a difference that we can all be proud of.”
Public Health Minister, Joe FitzPatrick said: “No death by suicide should be regarded as either acceptable or inevitable.
“We have made real progress to reduce suicide but we are determined to do even more.
“The new Lived Experience Panel will have a pivotal role in shaping and informing our Suicide Prevention Action Plan.”
To find out more visit: www.samh.org. uk/information/workwith-us/vacancies/ suicide-preventionlived-experience-panelvolunteer-member