Tag: suicide prevention

Is small talk a thing of the past? Samaritans urges Scots to keep talking

Samaritans Scotland’s Small Talk Saves Lives trailer will be pitching up at Bristo Square TOMORROW 13th March from 10am – 3pm

New data has revealed that over half of adults in Scotland (59%) would appreciate kind words from a stranger if they were visibly upset. However, nearly half of the respondents in Scotland (49%) felt that small talk is a thing of the past.

Responses from Scotland were spread across Aberdeen, Dundee, Edinburgh, Glasgow and Inverness. 

People in Edinburgh were most likely to appreciate a kind word from a stranger if they were visibly upset (68%), followed by Inverness (67%), Dundee (64%), Aberdeen (50%) and Glasgow (49%). 

Overall, the weather was the go-to small talk topic of choice for those across all five Scottish cities, with sport, family, and TV following closely behind. 

The data is released as part of the ‘Small Talk Saves Lives’ campaign – a campaign by Samaritans, Network Rail, and British Transport Police to remind people to practice their small talk skills, as it could be a life-saving tool. 

Small talk has a big impact. As part of the campaign, Samaritans volunteers will be visible in locations across Scotland, with pop-up events taking place in Wishaw, Glasgow, Kirkcaldy, Eyemouth, and Edinburgh during the week beginning 9th March, encouraging people to use small talk and check in on others.

A survey commissioned by  Samaritans found that over three quarters (78%) of people in the UK admitted to having avoided small talk in the past, despite 59% of respondents stated they would appreciate kind words from a stranger if they were visibly upset, and two thirds  (68%) of them  said they would be more inclined to make small talk with a stranger if they knew it made a positive impact. 

The Small Talk Saves Lives campaign, which Samaritans has run in partnership with Network Rail and British Transport Police since 2017, encourages the public to make some small talk with someone they think could be in distress, as your words could be a life-saving kit.  

Dave Brown, Head of Rail at Samaritans, said: “We know that people are often worried about saying the wrong thing to someone who is visibly upset, but it’s always better to say something than nothing at all.

“A brief chat, about the weather, or asking someone where they can grab a coffee, can be all it takes to interrupt those negative thoughts. Your words are a life-saving kit.”  

Matt Hosgood, Regional Rail Lead at Samaritans Scotland, said: “Samaritans ‘Small Talk Saves Lives’ campaign returns for its ninth year. This campaign is delivered by the Samaritans rail team, in partnership with Network Rail and the British Transport Police.

“The campaign comes at a time where over half of UK adults say they would appreciate some kind words if they were visibly upset. With this in mind, we are encouraging members of the public to feel empowered to check in on each other, reinforcing how asking something as simple as “Do you know where I can get a coffee?” can be enough to interrupt someone’s suicidal thoughts, open up a conversation, and potentially save a life.

“Suicide prevention is everyone’s business, and we all have a role to play to actively listen, show that we care and know where to signpost people for appropriate, timely support. Trust your instincts – if you see someone who might need help, stop and ask if they are okay, where it is safe to do so.

“Samaritans volunteers across Scotland will be visible in locations all over the country with a cup of tea or coffee, a biscuit and other goodies, as well as providing vital emotional support to anyone who might need it.

“Our trailer will be in Wishaw, Glasgow Forge, Kirkcaldy Galleries, Eyemouth Harbour and Edinburgh’s Bristo Square during the week beginning 9th March, so do pop by for a cuppa and a blether, as we work together to see that fewer people die by suicide.”

Louise McNally, principal suicide & trespass prevention specialist, said: “Millions of people pass through the rail network each day, and everyone single one of them could ask a simple question or say a friendly comment that could make all the difference.

“By encouraging colleagues and passengers to pause and start a conversation with someone that looks like they might need help, we’re encouraging people to make looking out for one another second nature and reminding them that small talk really can save lives.” 

Superintendent Sam Painter, British Transport Police lead for Protecting Vulnerable People, said: “The Small Talk Saves Lives campaign reinforces the message that anyone can play a role in supporting vulnerable people, even through something as simple as a little small talk. 

“We continue to work closely with Samaritans and Network Rail to ensure that those experiencing a mental health crisis receive timely and appropriate help.

“While a moment of small talk could help someone feel less alone, we also encourage anyone who sees a person they believe is in distress on the railway network to report it to us by texting 61016 or calling 999 in an emergency.” 

For more information and tips, visit Samaritans.org/smalltalksaveslives or join the conversation on social media using #SmallTalkSavesLives   

Samaritans Scotland urges people to check in on a friend

Samaritans encouraged people across Scotland to check in on a friend yesterday for its annual Brew Monday campaign, which aims to dispel the myth of ‘Blue Monday’.  

The second last Monday in January is often referred to as ‘Blue Monday’, but at Samaritans Scotland, we know there’s no such thing. Feeling low isn’t something that just happens on a random Monday in January.    

So, we decided it’s out with the blue, and in with the Brew. This Brew Monday, 19th January, Samaritans reminded everyone that having a chat over a cuppa is an easy way to make a big difference to someone who might be struggling.   

The suicide prevention charity is centred on the power of human connection, and its awareness campaign encourages people to come together and have a conversation with someone they are worried about – because it could save a life.  

Volunteers held pop-up events at train stations across the country, reaching out directly to anyone who is worried about someone or may be struggling themselves.  

Volunteers handed out tea bags and chatted to passengers about how a conversation can be lifesaving. 

Matt Hosgood, Regional Development Lead for Scotland, said:  “Samaritans are proud to bring Brew Monday back again this year, with a number of events being held across Scotland. Brew Monday is the perfect excuse to reach out and reconnect with friends and loved ones. 

“With the long winter days soon behind us, it’s important to check in and share a moment of genuine human connection. Talking can really help bring us together and less alone, so this Monday pop on the kettle and let’s turn small talk into big talk to ensure fewer people die by suicide. 

“This year, events at Edinburgh Waverley and Glasgow Central have been sponsored by Network Rail as part of Samaritans Rail Programme, whilst events in Dumfries, Lockerbie, Kilmarnock, Motherwell, Perth and Aberdeen have all been supported by ScotRail.” 

Samaritans’ partner, Three UK, sponsored Brew Monday this year as part of their mission to make connections matter.   

The winter months, particularly in Scotland, can be tough for many people. We hope you will join us in sharing our message, as we work towards seeing fewer deaths by suicide in Scotland. 

Let’s remind everyone how good a catch-up with a friend feels, as well as a nice hot drink on a cold wintery day.   

Anyone can contact Samaritans, free, any time from any phone on 116 123 or visit www.samaritans.org 

Samaritans Scotland urges politicians to make suicide prevention a priority

Life can be wonderful. Life can be tough. Relationships. Work. Money. Loneliness. Mental health. Self-harm. We can all struggle. Any place. Any time. One in four of us have had suicidal thoughts.  

Ahead of the 2026 Holyrood Election, leading national suicide prevention charity, Samaritans Scotland, is asking all political parties to make suicide prevention a priority, keeping it in mind across all policy areas to help people not only in their moment of need, but before they reach crisis point.

The charity says that suicide is and needs to be treated as an issue of inequality, with the rate of suicide mortality in the most deprived areas in Scotland being 2.5 times higher than the least deprived area. The charity says that tackling inequalities across Scottish society and in services is the only way to reduce the number of lives lost to suicide in our communities.

Developed alongside its Lived Experience Advisory Group, Samaritans Scotland’s manifesto outlines Five Priorities to Save Lives that it wants to see taken forward by the next Scottish Government.

These priorities include increasing funding for mental health services, delivering a minimum income guarantee, using workforce training to end stigma and discrimination, increasing support for people in prison, and increasing resourcing for community services.

The asks aim to target the root causes of circumstances that can contribute to someone experiencing suicidal thoughts and behaviour, before they reach crisis point.

Speaking at the launch event, Neil Mathers, Executive Director for Scotland, said: “As we look ahead to the 2026 election and next parliament, Scotland faces many big challenges. Our communities are still grappling with the cost of living, cuts to frontline services, and the ongoing impact of inequality on mental health and wellbeing.

“But there are also real opportunities at next year’s election to make lives better – to reduce poverty, improve wellbeing, to make sure the right support is there at the right time, and ultimately, to reduce deaths by suicide.

“Suicide remains one of the most urgent public health issues facing Scotland. At Samaritans Scotland, we’re calling on all political parties, candidates, and policymakers to make suicide prevention a real priority ahead of the election.”

Mark Diffley, Founder and Director of the Diffley Partnership, was in attendance to deliver an overview of the political landscape ahead of election day. It was highlighted that three out of four people in Scotland are already supportive of a Minimum Income Guarantee, with the top priorities of voters at the moment including healthcare and the cost-of-living crisis.

Research by Samaritans Scotland in partnership with Strathclyde University released last year indicated just how closely connected economic insecurity was with suicidal ideation, as well as the importance of social connection and community support networks, which is why the charity is urging politicians to prioritise these areas.

With the most recent probable suicide rate for people in prison in Scotland standing at 18.9 per 100,000 people, higher than the probable suicide rate of 12.7 per 100,000 in the general population, the charity is also calling for increased support for people in prison.

Nancy Loucks, Chief Executive of Families Outside, who was also in attendance, spoke about the potential for delivering a Minimum Income Guarantee for Scotland, saying: Having a Minimum Income Guarantee is so important.

“So much of what we see (at Families Outside) is a result of poverty and trauma. We expect prisons to solve problems that start much earlier. It’s about giving people the opportunities at the start, that prevent these issues from arising.”

Scott Thomson, member of Samaritans Scotland’s Lived Experience Advisory Group, said: “My key ask of the next Scottish Government would be to increase funding for mental health services.

“The NHS and frontline services are under too much strain; waiting lists are too long, and people need support now.

“Nurses and doctors are at a higher risk of suicide, with burnout and workplace pressures being significant factors. I think that by increasing funding towards these services, we can impact and potentially alleviate many other challenges that arise from a system that is struggling to cope with demand.”

Suicide is complex and touches every part of society. It is vital that politicians recognise the devastating impact that suicide has on people’s lives and make clear commitments to address the factors that contribute to suicide risk. 

Services in Scotland are working tirelessly to improve the lives of the people that need support, but statutory mental health services must have greater investment to enable them to keep up with growing demand.  

Suicide is preventable. Samaritans Scotland’s vision is that fewer people die by suicide, that people feel able to ask for help when they are struggling, and where the right support is available at the right time. 

Read the full manifesto here. 

Cyclist to ascend equivalent of Mount Everest in cycle around Scotland for Samaritans 

Cyclist to ascend equivalent of mount Everest in cycle around Scotland for Samaritans 

Meet Neil Beattie, a Shetland-based Council team-leader, who will be taking on an Everest sized cycle and meeting Samaritans volunteers across Scotland’s towns and cities to raise funds for the suicide prevention charity next week. 

Neil’s fundraising challenge will take him from Shetland to Selkirk and back again, through some of Scotland’s toughest terrains on a two-week journey. Throughout the (roughly) 1200-mile cycle, Neil will accumulate a climb of more than 30,000 feet, higher than the world’s tallest mountain. 

Having completed charity bike rides previously, including from Land’s End to John O’ Groats and in Vietnam, this particular challenge holds a significant place in Neil’s heart. Speaking about Samaritans as his chosen charity, Neil said:  

“My mum was previously the Regional Director at Samaritans Scotland, and dedicated numerous years as a volunteer to the charity and their mission to see fewer deaths by suicide in Scotland. 

“Sixteen years after first planning this ride, I set off on the 23rd July to raise funds for this wonderful charity and the volunteers that offer people someone to turn to when they feel they have no one.  

“Any donation, big or small will help someone with suicidal thoughts get help when they need it most.” 

Neil is set to depart Shetland’s Samaritans in Lerwick on the 23rd of July, cycling to the ferry port where he will set sail for the mainland to continue his journey down through the country to the Borders, then heading up to Orkney and finally back to Shetland again, meeting with volunteers all along the way. 

A fundraising page has been set up here where you can make a donation to support Neil’s huge effort and the vital work of Samaritans Scotland.  

When we feel low, the smallest tasks can feel like a mountain to climb. It can seem like the journey to feeling better is an uphill battle. Neil’s journey shows that when we break our challenges down into smaller stretches, we can make it through. We can keep believing in tomorrow. 

By donating to Neil’s fundraiser, you are helping someone with suicidal thoughts to talk to somebody who will listen in their most difficult moments. 

Samaritans Scotland’s vision is for a Scotland where everyone can get the right help and support when they need it most, and where fewer lives are lost to suicide. It has provided a vital lifeline for people in crisis and distress for more than six decades since the first branch in Scotland answered their first call for help in 1959. 

Anyone can call Samaritans on our free helpline at any time on 116 123 – even on a phone without credit – or email jo@samaritans.org.  

New Suicide Prevention Scotland Campaign and Website

Scotland’s new national suicide prevention campaign went live on Wednesday 16 April 2025. The campaign asks a simple question, “What if a conversation about suicide could save a life“?

It features four people with lived and living experience of suicide, each of whom agreed to share their story having been bereaved by, attempted or actively considered suicide.

The idea behind the campaign is that we need to normalise talking about suicide and give people the confidence to have a conversation that might just save someone’s life.

Alongside the campaign, a new website with a range of information, resources and a new local services directory is being launched at suicideprevention.scot.

This work is led by Suicide Prevention Scotland, the community of organisations working to deliver the Scottish Government and COSLA’s joint suicide prevention strategy, Creating Hope Together.

In addition to those with their own experiences of suicide, the campaign was developed with a group of people which also included those with professional experience and academic expertise. Suicide prevention specialists from local areas (Forth Valley and Ayrshire) were also involved, as was SeeMe, Scotland’s national programme to end mental health stigma and discrimination.

Suicide Prevention Scotland’s National Delivery Lead Haylis Smith who lost her uncle Joe to suicide said: “This is an extraordinary campaign. It’s deeply moving, extremely personal, and yet is full of hope. It is also very bold, which is no wonder given it was completely co-produced with people who bring their own experiences.

“The message could not be clearer: if you’re worried about someone, ask them how they are, ask them if they are thinking about suicide. Talking about suicide is the best way to prevent it from happening. And if you’re worried about yourself, please reach out. It might be the bravest thing you ever have to do, but it will probably be the best thing you ever do, too.”

Cllr Paul Kelly, COSLA’s Health and Social Care Spokesperson added: “Within COSLA and across all spheres of Government, we recognise the importance of early intervention – providing the right support at the right time as early as possible.

“I’m confident that this campaign will contribute to our early intervention outcomes by prompting people to have vital conversations about suicide that might just save a life.

“I commend Seonaid, Ross, Clare and Laura for sharing their stories and helping to encourage these conversations. They are all active members of our communities with lived and living experience, which is an essential factor in helping to normalise talking about suicide and ensuring people in need are supported within their local communities.”

If you are having thoughts of suicide, please reach out for help, speak to someone you trust or call one of these helplines:

Samaritans 116 123 or use the online chat at samaritans.org

Breathing Space 0800 83 85 87NHS 24 mental health hub on 111

If you are ever in immediate danger or have the means to cause yourself harm, you should dial 999 and request an ambulance.

Increased Focus on Suicide Prevention in Scottish Agriculture

The drive to raise awareness and understanding of suicide prevention in the Scottish agricultural community is set to take a significant step forward this month.

Ahead of World Suicide Prevention Day (Sept 10, 2024) RSABI is embarking on a recruitment drive behind a new role in the charity, which supports people in Scottish agriculture, focused on suicide prevention in Scotland’s farming and crofting communities.

The new position, being delivered in partnership with SAMH (Scottish Action for Mental Health), will see RSABI for the first time benefit from a full-time member of staff  focused on crucial suicide prevention work in Scottish agriculture.

As well as working long hours, the isolation of modern farming and lack of social contact, along with the impact of the increased cost of living, are factors which can have a major impact on the mental wellbeing of people in farming.

The aim is to maximise the opportunity for partnership working and collaboration with specialist organisations involved in suicide prevention, in line with the Scottish Government’s Prevention Strategy, Creating Hope Together.

One priority will be to improve understanding of suicide in Scotland’s farming and crofting communities and increase awareness of the ways everyone can play a part in suicide prevention.

The new role is set to add to a range of mental health initiatives RSABI is delivering to help provide emotional support to people in Scottish agriculture, which sadly has a poor track record in terms of mental health and suicide.

In the past two years RSABI has delivered mental health first aid training, working with former Royal Marines at IED Training Solutions, to over 700 people working in the frontline of Scottish agriculture, to help them to know what to say and do when someone is struggling.

The charity also works very closely with the Scottish Association of Young Farmers Clubs (SAYFC) and has this summer started an ambitious programme of Suicide Prevention training with young farmers, working with Papyrus, a charity which specialises in suicide prevention in young people.

RSABI has also seen demand for is free counselling services increase significantly over the past year with over 1000 free counselling sessions provided to people in Scottish agriculture in the past year.

The fact that farmers are often reluctant to seek help from a health professional at an early stage can also contribute to mental and physical conditions deteriorating. To help tackle this, and encourage farmers to seek professional advice, RSABI is rolling out a Health Hut initiative with a dedicated team of nurses and doctors setting up health huts in auction marts and at agricultural shows throughout the country.

A wellbeing app – Thrive Wellbeing – is also provided free of charge by RSABI, following a successful pilot programme with three young farmers clubs.

Carol McLaren, Chief Executive of RSABI, said the development of the new role in partnership with SAMH is a vital step forward: “We know that sadly we are still losing far too many people of all ages in Scottish agriculture to suicide and too often our welfare team sees the devastating impact this has on families and friends bereaved by suicide.

“The impact of these deaths on our closeknit Scottish farming and crofting communities, is huge.

“As a charity we already work closely with many of Scotland’s mental health organisations and working in partnership with SAMH and having a dedicated individual in our team focused on communications, awareness-raising and engagement around suicide prevention will ensure we can take the benefits of this collaboration to a new level.

“Our new recruit will also lead on new research in the coming months to help us increase understanding of a great many factors relating to suicide in Scottish agriculture. This will help us to understand how RSABI, working in collaboration with many others, can raise awareness in our communities, help prevent suicides and support those bereaved by suicide.”

Dan Farthing, Head of Suicide Prevention at SAMH, said: “The agricultural sector has always been demanding. There is widespread lone working and highly intensive long working hours, particularly at peak times of the year.  However, people are now facing mounting pressures as the economics of farming change.

“Climate change and workforce challenges are adding considerably to those pressures, and we are concerned that is adding to the risk of suicide in the community.

“This partnership with RSABI is really important as a step towards improving the understanding of suicide in the sector and creating opportunities to have meaningful conversations about suicide in farming communities to reduce risk. We’re grateful to RSABI for working with us and look forward to the work we’ll do together.”

Mental Health Awareness Week: UK Government announces recipients of £5.4 million suicide prevention fund

  • 113 charities have benefitted from £5.4 million to prevent suicide in high-risk groups, including people from Black communities and men
  • Demand for services has increased during the pandemic and funds have bolstered services including therapy, stigma-busting workshops and helplines
  • Government will publish a Suicide Prevention Plan later this year to outline further support for those in need

The UK government has announced the charities that have received a share of £5.4million, to support people experiencing suicidal thoughts or approaching a crisis. This follows increased demand for services, met by the voluntary, community and social enterprise (VCSE) sector during the pandemic.

The Scottish Government announced an additional £15 million for The Communities Mental Health and Wellbeing Fund last week.

Marking the beginning of Mental Health Awareness Week the UK government has announced that, following an open and competitive application process, 113 charities were awarded a share of the VCSE suicide prevention grant fund.

This funding, which was distributed and used earlier this year, enabled recipients to either set up new projects, or expand or sustain current services to ensure people are supported – including funding projects retrospectively.

Funded projects included providing additional capacity in crisis helplines, both for those struggling with suicidal thoughts and for those who are concerned about a loved one, providing signposting to local services, support and information, refreshing campaigns to provide targeted support to specific at-risk groups, therapy sessions and supporting families who have tragically been bereaved by suicide.

These voluntary and community services are vital for supporting individuals in the community, ensuring they receive the help they need, whilst also allowing health services to continue tackling the Covid backlog.

In 2021, there were over 5,000 suicides registered in England. In both men and women, around 40% of suicides are by people in their 40s and 50s, whilst men aged 45 to 49 have the highest rate.

Whilst this additional funding is already helping communities, the government is committed to doing all it can to prevent deaths by suicide. Later this year, it will publish a new Suicide Prevention Plan that will set out actions and commitments to do so.

To support the development of this plan, the department has opened a 12-week call for evidence which is running until 7 July, to help inform both the new 10-year Mental Health Plan and the new National Suicide Prevention Plan. It is seeking views from the public, as well as the sector, on what can be improved within the current service, and what more can be done to prevent suicides – particularly in light of the pandemic which has led to record levels of people seeking treatment and accessing support.

Health and Social Care Secretary, Sajid Javid, said: “I know how devastating suicide can be and I am committed to making sure the NHS and voluntary sector services have the support they need.

“We know many more people have been asking for help with their mental health over the last two years and we’re publishing a Suicide Prevention Plan later this year to outline further support for those in need.

“If you’re struggling, please reach out for support – we’re here to help.”

Minister for Mental Health, Gillian Keegan, said: “The suicide prevention voluntary sector has played a crucial role in providing people with the help and support they need throughout the pandemic and I thank them for all they do.

“Suicides are preventable tragedies when the right support and help is in place. I’m committed to continuing to support the sector and to do all we can to ensure people have the help they need.

“This Mental Health Awareness Week, I want to be clear that there is support for those struggling – and if you need help, I encourage you to reach out.”

The £5.4million of funding has been awarded to a wide range of organisations, including small community groups which play a vital role in responding to local needs, ensuring communities up and down the country can access suicide prevention support.

The support has predominantly been targeted at high-risk groups who may have struggled the most during the pandemic, such as people with a pre-existing mental illness, children and young people, and those from groups considered to be at higher risk of self-harm and suicide, such as people from Black communities, men, and people who are economically vulnerable.

The charities who’ve been awarded funding include:

  • James’ Place Charity, who’ve been awarded £283,968 and provide innovative, free, suicide prevention therapy to men over the age of 18 in Merseyside who are in suicidal crisis.
  • Caribbean & African Health Network (CAHN), who’ve been awarded £41,599 and address the wider social determinants to reduce health inequalities for people from Caribbean & African communities, tackle taboos around suicide in black communities, raising awareness though workshops and campaigns as well as running virtual chat and support sessions for young people.
  • Chasing the Stigma, who’ve been awarded £51,918 and provide the Hub of Hope, a mental health signposting tool accessed by over 22,000 people per month
  • Papyrus, who’ve been awarded £151,815 and provide confidential support and advice specifically to young people struggling with thoughts of suicide, and anyone worried about a young person. This support is provided through their HOPELINEUK.

Ellen O’Donoghue, Chief Executive Officer at James’ Place said: “At James’ Place, our professional therapists work with men in suicidal crisis who have an active plan to end their lives or who have recently made an attempt.

“The DHSC’s Suicide Prevention Fund has made a huge difference to the men we supported at our Liverpool centre in 2021 and 2022.

“We are now focussing on expanding our provision further, opening our second centre in London and three more beyond that, so that we can reach more men and help them to find hope for the future.”

Charles Kwaku-Odoi, Chief Officer of the Caribbean & African Health Network (CAHN) said: “Suicides occurs in all communities although it is not a topic openly spoken about in ethnic communities often due to stigma, shame, cultural and religious issues. It is important that we combat the threat of increasing suicide in the Black community while encouraging people to seek help at the earliest opportunity.

“The funding will enable us increase understanding and knowledge of practical suicide prevention techniques via different platforms helping people to spot the early signs and act appropriately.

“CAHN is committed to helping the Caribbean & African community tackle suicide. Our helpline (07710 022382) is open 9am to 9pm every day for those who need someone to talk to, feeling down or struggling.”

Jake Mills, Chief Executive at Chasing the Stigma said: “The grant of £51,918 received from the DHSC’s VCSE Suicide Prevention Grant Fund felt like a real lifeline for us at Chasing the Stigma in what was a year of unprecedented demand for our services.

“As a result of the pandemic, our Hub of Hope, the UK’s biggest and most comprehensive mental health signposting tool, witnessed an exceptional increase in demand from people looking for help and support across the UK.

“Although encouraging that more people were seeking and finding support, the significant pressure on our services came with its own challenges, including rising costs for maintaining and sustaining the platform. A challenge which has been made easier as a result of this grant.

“Chasing the Stigma is a national mental health charity with lived experience at the very core of all we do, which is why we are pleased to see the announcement of a new suicide prevention strategy in England. We are eager to engage in any plans as a voice of those who have lived through the pain of suicide and suicidal ideation.

“We fundamentally believe that the experiences of people should play a vital role in any new initiatives to reduce suicide and we are committed to represent those voices wherever we can.

Ged Flynn, Chief Executive at Papyrus said: “PAPYRUS Prevention of Young Suicide was pleased to receive a grant of £151,815 from DHSC’s VCSE Suicide Prevention Grant Fund.

“The grant has helped to offset some of the rising costs of our vital HOPELINEUK service which offers professional advice to young people experiencing thoughts of suicide, and to those who are concerned about them. The service met hugely increased demand during the first two years of the Coronavirus pandemic.

“As a national charity, we welcome the announcement that there is to be a new suicide prevention strategy in England. We are keen to see the voice of young people at the heart of that initiative. After all, suicide remains the leading cause of death in those aged under 35.

“That’s why strategic cross-Government and cross-society effort is so important. PAPYRUS continues to do all it can to work with others, and especially with young people themselves, to help save young lives.

This fund is on top of £10.2 million already given to mental health charities over the course of the pandemic, and will support suicide prevention organisations to continue to provide support to all those who need it.

More widely, the Mental Health Recovery Action Plan, backed by £500 million, has ensured the right support is being offered to people with a variety of mental health conditions who have been impacted most by the pandemic.

Mental Health Awareness Week is an annual event which provides an opportunity for the whole of the UK to focus on achieving good mental health.

This year, the aim is to raise awareness of the impact of loneliness on people’s mental wellbeing and the practical steps which can be taken to address it.

Last week the Scottish Government announced an additional £15 million for The Communities Mental Health and Wellbeing Fund.

Respect the Water!

Water Safety Scotland urges people to take precautions as incident data shows an increase in water-related fatalities

Water Safety Scotland (WSS) is urging people across Scotland to ‘Respect the Water’ when visiting and enjoying its waterways and coastlines.

This call comes at a time when the latest figures from the Water Incident Database (WAID), which is maintained by the National Water Safety Forum (NWSF), revealed that there were 99 water-related fatalities in Scotland’s waters, with 39 due to accidental drownings in 2020.*

79% of accidental fatalities happened at inland waters. This is a significant change from previous years, which have seen most accidental fatalities happen at the coast.

With drownings across the world currently in the spotlight after the United Nations (UN) recent General Assembly, there are growing concerns emerging with the announcement of these new figures.

As Scotland’s Year of Coasts and Waters 2021 is in full swing, WSS is keen to support people getting out and enjoying Scotland’s waterways with safety at the forefront of any activities.

In line with the NWSF ‘Respect the Water’ campaign, WSS is asking members of the public to follow Scotland’s Water Safety Code wherever they are in Scotland, and have, as a result, created a new webpage to support the ‘Respect The Water’ campaign.

WSS highlights the following key pieces of advice in its Water Safety Code:

  • Stop and think – spot the dangers
  • Stay together, stay close
  • Know what to do in an emergency

Michael Avril, Chair of Water Safety Scotland said: “Every fatality in Scotland massively impacts the persons friends and family and we at Water Safety Scotland will continue to do everything within our powers to prevent future tragedies.

“2020 was an exceptionally difficult year in so many ways and the increased number of drowning fatalities may have been caused by a number of factors.  Water Safety Scotland will continue to work in partnership to carry out prevention activity and to better understand the causes of these tragedies.

“We ask everyone to come together in Scotland to support the #RespectTheWater campaign and follow Scotland’s Water Safety code.”

With Scotland’s Drowning Prevention Strategy in its fourth year, the four-year review of the strategy will be published next spring along with a planned RoSPA Water Safety Conference.

This year’s WAID statistics also includes a fatality figure from suspected suicides. The figure for Scotland in 2020 was 28, with the Scotland’s Drowning Prevention Strategy average being 29.

Rachel Cackett, Executive Director for Samaritans Scotland and chair of the Water Safety Scotland’s Suicide Prevention Subgroup, said: “Suicide accounts for around 1 in 3 water-related fatalities in Scotland every year. Working to understand and reduce the risks of suicidal behaviour around Scotland’s waterways is important both for suicide prevention policy and for realising the overall aims of Scotland’s Drowning Prevention Strategy.

“Today’s figures are a reminder that it’s vital we continue to work with partners across national and local government, health, emergency and first response services, and the third and voluntary sector to develop knowledge and insight around suicidal behaviour around water-ways, and that we carry on working together to strengthen prevention and intervention.”

To view and download the WAID 2020 report visit: 

https://nationalwatersafety.org.uk/waid/annual-reports-and-data/

To view WSS’s annual trend report visit: 

https://www.watersafetyscotland.org.uk/media/1758/waid-2020-trend-report.pdf

Breaking the Silence: Tamas Jeles Project at Muirhouse Millennium Centre

This is a mens mental health group in honour of my late fiancé who killed himself leaving behind newborn twin daughters and a son.  Please get the word out: the silence needs to be broken – Lou Hamilton

Monday 15th July from 7 – 9pm at Muirhouse Millennium Centre

Suicide prevention training launched across Scotland’s football clubs

Football clubs across Scotland will be among the first to receive a new mental health and suicide prevention training resource for their players and staff.

Funded by the Scottish Government and created by NHS National Education for Scotland and NHS Health Scotland, the online resource will be shared with all 42 professional football clubs, along with 300 mental health first aiders employed by around 80 football organisations throughout the country.

It will also be shared across all junior, youth, women’s, amateur and para-football leagues and clubs, reaching around 190,000 players.

The training, which is part of the Scottish Government’s Suicide Prevention Action Plan, will also be distributed to all local authorities and will be included in NHS health board workforce development planning from June 2019.

Mental Health Minister Clare Haughey said: “We must ensure that mental health is given parity with physical health, and our new online resource is a significant step and a key part of our suicide prevention plan, which aims to reduce suicide in Scotland by 20% by 2022.

“We want to create a Scotland where suicide is preventable, and where anyone contemplating suicide or who has lost a loved one gets the support they need. I’d like to thank the Scottish Professional Football League (SPFL) and the Scottish FA who will be among the first to roll this out to players and staff across 42 all clubs.

“I’d also like to thank Scotland’s councils for their commitment to take this training to almost 250,000 local authority workers across the country. Our approach recognises the need to work together across sectors and organisations to identify and support people in distress, strengthen communities, and save lives.”

Neil Doncaster, SPFL chief executive, said: “The SPFL and its clubs are proud to be able to play a part in this ground-breaking initiative.

“It’s vital that mental health issues are given the prominence they deserve, and that more people are encouraged to seek the support and treatment they require.”

SPFL Trust chief executive Nicky Reid, who also sits on the Scottish Government’s National Suicide Prevention Leadership Group, said: “We are happy that Scottish football is able to support the dissemination of this new suicide prevention training resource to our clubs across the country.

“Every football club in Scotland has now participated in our programme of mental health first aid training, with nearly 400 clubs now trained in our partnership with NHS Scotland and Positive Mental Health Scotland.

“We’re also pleased with the progress of our ongoing pilot projects with Hibernian, Heart of Midlothian, Movember Foundation and SAMH which have delivered The Changing Room – our project supporting football fans who are at risk of poor mental health by creating a safe space within their clubs. We are working with SAMH to look at ways to expand this programme.

“Our commitment to the wellbeing of staff, players, and supporters has never been stronger.”

Ian Maxwell, Scottish FA Chief Executive, said: “The Scottish FA is dedicated to supporting the mental health and wellbeing of all footballers in Scotland, so we are pleased to lend our backing to this important resource, which addresses such a worthy topic.

“It is through services such as this that we will work to ensure that Scottish football is a supportive and nurturing environment for the mental wellbeing of everyone who wants to participate in our wonderful game.”

COSLA Health and Social Care Spokesperson Councillor Stuart Currie said: “Suicide prevention is everyone’s business, and local government employees have a key role in preventing, recognising and responding to distress. This online resource provides an additional way for the 250,000 strong workforce to learn more about suicide prevention.

“This is important both in terms of their role in serving our communities, but also on a personal level and with family and friends, because anyone can experience distress and suicidal thoughts.

“The animations within the online resource will be screened across all 32 local authorities and will be one element of the work we do to build a culture of understanding distress and preventing suicide across Scotland.”

George Dodds, Member of the National Suicide Prevention Leadership Group and Director at NHS Health Scotland, said: “On average two people die by suicide every day in Scotland. That’s tragic and preventable. We also know one in three people who take their own life have had no contact with any specialist services before they die. We need to change that dramatically. 

“That’s why NHS Education for Scotland and NHS Health Scotland have worked together to develop these resources, to help the Scottish workforce improve mental health and prevent suicide. The online animations aim to raise awareness of the issues that affect people and that can lead those in distress to sometimes think about taking their own life. They’re also designed to increase the confidence of healthcare staff to respond compassionately and effectively to support anyone in that situation.

“We hope the animations will also help staff from other sectors have the confidence to hold compassionate conversations with those they meet, so that they can get help to those most vulnerable at the time it’s needed.”

The online resource consists of three animations totalling nine minutes and can be downloaded for use via the links below:

https://vimeo.com/338176495  – Ask, Tell – Look After Your Mental Health
https://vimeo.com/338176444  – Ask, Tell – Have a Healthy Conversation
https://vimeo.com/338176393  – Ask, Tell – Save A Life: Every Life Matters