Pick up the phone you are not alone
Telford and Wrekin Council want people who are experiencing suicidal thoughts to know that they are not alone and they can pick up the phone for support.
On World Suicide Prevention Day Thursday 10th September, the council is also reminding residents the importance of reaching out and asking others if they are okay.
This year people may be suffering more than usual due to feelings of isolation and associated issues as a result the Coronavirus pandemic.
Cllr Andy Burford, Cabinet Member for Health and Social Care, said: “We want to raise awareness of support out there and encourage those affected by suicide, to come forward - you are not alone, we care and are here to help.
“The majority of people who take their own lives aren't always known to mental health services and I would remind anyone who is having suicidal thoughts or feeling the pressure that it’s ok to talk.
“Talking to someone can take a lot of effort but it’s important to remember that there are services such as the Samaritans and other local services in place to provide support.
“If you’re struggling with suicidal thoughts then pick up the phone, there is always someone there to help.”
Shropshire and Telford and Wrekin’s Suicide Prevention Network are also reminding people to download their “Z-cards.”
The cards provide discrete support and advice on who to contact for anyone experiencing suicidal thoughts or someone who is concerned about someone else.
The “Z-cards” can be downloaded online from the Healthy Telford website - healthytelford.com
Cllr Andy Burford, added: “Suicide is preventable, all of us can do something about it, and a short conversation is sometimes all it takes to save a person’s life.
People can seek out the online suicide prevention training provided by the Zero Suicide Alliance.”
It only takes 20 minutes and could can save someone’s life. The training can be taken at zerosuicidealliance.com.
Learn Telford and The Job Box will be inviting people to pop-up events at Donnington Hub and Park Lane Centre for people to find out how volunteering, learning and employment can aid in the road to recovery.
Throughout the week Healthy Telford will be raising awareness around suicide prevention through their Twitter account.
