Important campaign makes Suicide Prevention Everybody’s Business

Suicide Prevention Week is taking place this week across Perth and Kinross.

Backed by Perth and Kinross Community Planning Partnership, the scheme runs until Sunday, with the theme being Suicide Prevention is Everybody’s Business.

It is hoped to encourage residents to download and use the Suicide? Help! app developed within Tayside.

The app contains contact details of local and national organisations, information about suicide, a guide on how to help those in distress and a safety plan which can be filled out and saved on a mobile device.

Various events are taking place this week in line with the campaign, including an information session on Perth High Street tomorrow. Specially designed beer mats will be distributed to local pubs to raise awareness of the app.

In addition, suicide prevention messages will be highlighted at McDiarmid Park on Saturday, when St Johnstone host Hibs.

Councillor Crawford Reid, chairman of Perth and Kinross Integrated Joint Board, said: “Suicide Prevention Week continues to raise awareness for a very important cause. The Suicide? Help! app is a useful tool that everyone should be aware of.

“I am sure this year’s campaign will further promote the various support tools and services available to anyone who may be affected by suicide.”

A council spokesperson said: “Every suicide is a tragedy and each suicide has a significant impact on families and communities across Scotland. The taboo around talking about suicide doesn’t help those who are grieving.”