Invitation to walk and talk
Lanarkshire charity FAMS are set to host their annual Let’s Walk and Talk About Mental Health event later this month.
It will take place around Strathclyde Park on Sunday, October 11, and aims to keep people connected and start a conversation around mental health.
The walk also gives adults, young people and children the opportunity to connect in a safe and supportive environment and showcase and signpost the support available via FAMS.
Like many charities during the pandemic, FAMS has seen a dramatic decrease in the income they receive from fundraising, while the demand for their services has never been higher.
FAMS co-founder and volunteer Ann Marie Cocozza said: “We have greater evidencebased information than ever before regarding our nation’s losing battle in providing mental health and wellbeing support to adults and young people in distress, both before and during this pandemic.
“What we don’t need is another new report or another set of stats telling us what we already know about the connection between poor mental health and suicide, suicidal thoughts and behaviours.
“What we absolutely do need is to see more action at the coal face by charities such as ours who can put into place the right services and support at the right time and right place – at the coal face.
“It’s time to have support at the top of the hill, instead of ambulances waiting at the bottom to treat people as they fall.”
Mrs Brown’s Boys star and FAMS ambassador Gary Hollywood added: “I believe human connection and interaction are key to us emerging from the pandemic with healthy mental health and wellbeing.
“This event will give people of all ages the opportunity to connect, find out what help is available to them and enjoy some healthy social interaction.”
Let’s Walk and Talk About Mental Health takes place on October 11 between 1pm and 3pm. Social distance marshals will be in place and people are asked to wear a face mask.
The event is free but you can donate to FAMS via https://www.gofundme.com/f/ lets-walk-amp-talk-about-mental-health.
FAMS is a charity providing peer- support for individuals affected by murder, suicide, or other mental health issues.
If you or someone you know needs support you can call Fam.chat on 07836 326062 or access Live.chat through the website www. fams.chat, 10am to 10pm, seven days a week.