Commissioner encourages people to speak out on World Suicide Prevention Day

Today, Friday 10th September, marks World Suicide Prevention Day and Police and Crime Commissioner for Cheshire, John Dwyer, is encouraging those who are struggling to reach out and seek help.

World Suicide Prevention Day was established to give the world an opportunity to reflect on the tragic loss that suicide brings, and the World Health Organisation estimates that today one in every 100 deaths worldwide is the result of suicide. The day also serves as a way promote positive action that will mean we lose fewer people to suicide, and prevent suicide attempts.

The theme of the day is ‘Creating Hope Through Action’, which is a reminder to those who are contemplating suicide that it isn’t the only option, and that other people are there to provide hope through something as simple as just talking. Checking on family and friends is vitally important, and World Suicide Prevention Day is a reminder for us all to check in on the people we love and care about.

John Dwyer, Police and Crime Commissioner for Cheshire, said: “We lose  too many people in each year to suicide. I want everyone in our county and beyond to know that support is available, so it needs to be said louder and clearer than ever that now is the time to talk, and we all have a role to play in listening too, including the police.

“The pandemic has been especially difficult with all the uncertainty and isolation it has brought, so I just want to take the time to remind people that you are not alone. If you don’t feel comfortable talking to family or friends, then there are organisations out there who can help and will listen to you.”

You can find out more about World Suicide Prevention Day from the International Association for Suicide Prevention here:

 WSPD2021 - IASP 

http://www.iasp.info/wspd2021/

What support is available to me?

There are a number of organisations out there who can help you in times of crisis.

·       In Cheshire there are two dedicated mental health crisis lines. For Cheshire East and Cheshire West & Chester call 0800 1456485. For Halton and Warrington call 0800 051 1508. These lines are available 24/7.

·       The Samaritans is available 24/7, 365 days a year for anyone who needs to talk. You can call them on 116 123, email them or write a letter.

·       PAPYRUS HOPELINEUK is for young people who feel suicidal or for someone who is worried about a young person. Call on 0800 068 4141, text 07860 039967 or email pat@papyrus-uk.org

·       CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably) has a phoneline and webchat open 5pm till midnight and is open 365 days a year. Call 0800 58 58 58.