NEWSROOM

The event has been organised by Telford & Wrekin Council, council partners, the local suicide prevention action group and those with lived experience, Councillor Kelly Middleton, (Lab) Cabinet Member for Healthier, Safer & Stronger Communities & Partnerships said: “We need people to get the help they need when they need it most and reducing both suicide and the stigma around it are key priorities for Telford & Wrekin Council as a whole.

“Whether you’re a carer for someone at home or struggling with grief, trauma or addiction, there is support out there – please make that step and reach out.

“We are committed in every sense to make Telford and Wrekin a cleaner greener and above all safer place to live.”

Street art, face painting, circus skills, dance demonstrations, physical and creative activities will take place along with live music and experienced speakers on hand for advice, support and resources.

This year has also seen 500 new signs, joint funded by Telford Samaritans and Telford & Wrekin Council, installed and display helpline numbers, in the hope that people may reach out, preventing suicides and other tragic incidents.

Some 16 deaths from suicide were registered in Telford and Wrekin in 2022 and Director for Telford Samaritans, Julie Menary said: “Samaritans are proud to be involved in this initiative & to be working alongside WM Police & Safer Stronger, as it goes to the very heart of why we do what we do.

“Samaritans Vision is that Fewer people die from Suicide so our hope is that if just one life is saved by them calling one of the numbers on these signs then the signs have done their job”

Paul Brittain, Early Intervention & Prevention Officer for West Mercia Police said: "Local police have seen an unprecedented surge in calls from individuals in crisis seeking assistance and these signs, featuring contact information for vital support services, will be strategically positioned.”

Councillor Kelly Middleton added: “Please show your support and help us promote and join in with this event. Even if you cannot attend, please consider doing the 20-minute Zero Suicide Alliance online training, which is quick and easy, and could help save a life one day.”

To complete the training, visit the website here: https://bit.ly/ZeroSuicideTW

World Suicide Prevention Day falls on Tuesday, September 10 an this year’s theme is ‘Changing the Narrative on Suicide’ with the call to start a conversation.

This theme aims to raise awareness about the importance of reducing stigma and encouraging open conversations to prevent suicides. Changing the narrative on suicide is about transforming how w this complex issue is perceived and shifting from a culture of silence and stigma to one of openness, understanding, and support.

For help and support: 

• FREEPHONE 24/7 Urgent NHS Mental Health Helpline 0808 196 4501 or email access.shropshire@mpft.nhs.uk
• Samaritans, 24/7 – Whatever you’re going through, a Samaritan will face it with you, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Call 116 123
• Text SHOUT to 85258 (available 24/7). Shout is a 24/7 UK crisis text service available for times when people feel they need immediate support.
• Papyrus Hopeline247 for children and young people
• Call 0800 068 4141 Text 07860 039967 Email: pat@papyrus-uk.org 9am-10pm weekdays, 2pm-10pm weekends, 2pm-10pm bank holidays
• BeeU Shropshire and Telford & Wrekin – mental health support for young people - BeeU :: Midlands Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust (mpft.nhs.uk)
• Healthier Together – a website with information and advice for parents, young people and pregnant women as well as clinical resources to support healthcare professionals on a range of physical and mental health conditions.
• Kooth - Free, safe and anonymous online counselling and support for young people
• Young Minds - Free, confidential online and telephone support including information and advice to any adult worried about the emotional problems, behaviour or mental health of a child or young person up to the age of 25. Call 0808 8025544. Text line: Text YM to 85258
  
• Sanctuary provided by Shropshire Mental Health Support– can be contacted in urgent situations where there is immediate risk and will close services to adults to support a child with needs. Call 01743 368 647