Help shape the policy on suicide issue

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People directly affected by suicide can help shape future government policy by becoming part of a new national project.

SAMH (Scottish Association for Mental Health) is inviting people from North Lanarkshire to apply to take part in a new National Suicide Prevention: Lived Experience Panel.

The panel is encouraging anyone who has attempted suicide, experienced suicidal thoughts, or suffered the death of a loved one to suicide to apply.

SAMH is working with the Scottish Government and partners Support in Mind, Penumbra, and Samaritans Scotland to deliver the scheme.

Those who join will be able to share their experiences and will work alongside a member of the Scottish Government’s National Suicide Prevention Leadership Group.

Billy Watson, chief executive of SAMH, said: “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.”

Joe FitzPatrick, Scottish Government minister for public health, 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.

“Our goal is to ensure help and support is available to everyone contemplating suicide and those who have lost a loved one.”

For more information or to apply, visit : www.samh.org. uk/information/work-withus/vacancies