16 lives lost in just 1 year ... it’s time to talk about suicide

Samaritans to reach out by hosting town centre event

07.09.2017 Sixteen people took their own lives across Renfrewshire last year.

And now the Samaritans are to host an event in Johnstone this weekend aimed at offering support to anyone going through a tough time.

The charity will team up with support workers from four local mental health charities between 10am and 5pm in Houston Square on Saturday as part of Suicide Prevention Week, which ends on Sunday.

Samaritans’ volunteers will be there with their ‘We Listen’ campaign trailer to offer advice to people who are struggling or are worried about someone else.

Other support services on hand will include Renfrewshire’s Survivors of Bereavement by Suicide (SOBS) support group, Breathing Space, Choose Life and Renfrewshire Association for Mental Health (RAMH).

Rosemary Mullen, Choose Life service coordinator, said: “Discussing thoughts of suicide can be a source of relief and the key to preventing immediate danger.

“It is also vital that support is available to help families cope with the loss of a loved one to suicide.

“The number of people taking their own lives has fallen in Renfrewshire every year since 2011, but it’s important that anyone struggling is aware of the support that is available.”

Samaritans’ executive director for Scotland, James Jopling, said: “Sixteen people took their own life in Renfrewshire last year and the loss of each one of those lives will have had a devastating impact on families, friends and colleagues.

“We know that communities can play a key role in preventing suicide, so it’s truly heartening to see this community come together to tackle the issue. Taking time to look out for those around us can have a real impact.

“Please drop into our event and take a minute this World Suicide Prevention Day to ask someone how they are, and to really listen to that answer. Taking that minute could truly change a life.”

Samaritans stages hundreds of outreach events every year throughout the UK and Ireland to raise awareness of the charity and encourage people to seek help before they reach crisis.

Anyone can contact Samaritans for free, at any time on 116 123, email jo@ samaritans.org, or visit www.samaritans. org to find details of your nearest branch.

The national helpline Breathing Space can be reached on 0800 83 85 87, and RAMH First Crisis can be contacted on 0141 848 9090.

For more information on suicide prevention in Renfrewshire, call 0141 849 2200, or email rosemary.mullan@ renfrewshire.gov.uk

It’s important that anyone struggling is aware of the support that is available