Hundreds support charity walk
Suicide awareness event
Around 500 people braved the rain and wind at Strathclyde Park for the recent Let’s Walk About Suicide event.
The walk, organised by FAMS – Family and Friends Against Murder Suicide – was held on Sunday, September 10.
It was opened by North Lanarkshire councillor Pat O’rourke, convenor of the Social Work Sub Committee, and South Lanarkshire councillor, and depute leader, Maureen Chalmers.
More than 20 charities and organisations, including suicide prevention groups and the emergency services, participated in the event, making it the largest of its kind to be held in Lanarkshire.
It aimed to raise awareness of suicide and suicidal behaviours, as well as offering support to those bereaved by suicide.
Ann Marie Cocozza, FAMS co-founder and volunteer, said: “Suicide is a family affair, in that it affects everyone in the family, irrespective of age.
“Our event allowed the opportunity for siblings, children, partners, etc, who have been affected by suicide or suicidal behaviours to come together and see that they are not alone.
“It’s also the reason why the event was free, to ensure that it was socially inclusive to all.
“FAMS insist that all families and their friends, affected by suicide or suicidal behaviours, should not have to even consider the costs of attending.
“A massive thank you to everyone that attended for helping to make the event such a success.”
For more information about the work of the Hamilton-based charity, go online to fams.chat.
They also have a helpline which people can call on 07391 003766.