World Suicide Prevention Day takes place on Wednesday 10 September, and is a global day to raise awareness about suicide and suicide prevention.
In support of this day, the annual HOPE 100 walk will take place on Saturday 6 September, and on Wednesday 10 September Warrington in Mind will be hosting a ‘pop-up’ mental health space in Golden Square Shopping Centre.
HOPE 100 Walk
The walk will start at Victoria Park at 11am, on Saturday 6 September.
There will be a 5k and 10km route. Both walks are accessible and suitable for all ages and abilities.
The aim of the walk is to start conversations around suicide and mental health, fostering a sense of community and hope.
The walk will create a focus for those who are passionate about mental health and suicide prevention, and who may have lost someone close to them through suicide. It provides an opportunity to remember, reflect and build resilience across Warrington’s communities.
Everyone is welcomed. You can register for a place today. Anyone between the ages of 12-17 must be accompanied by an adult.
Pop – up mental health living room
On Wednesday 10 September, Warrington in Mind will be hosting a ‘pop-up’ mental health living room space in Golden Square Shopping Centre. There will also be several different information stands throughout the shopping centre hosted by the different mental health services.
People can drop by between 12pm and 4pm, to find out about the range of different mental health groups available in Warrington and get involved in conversations around suicide and mental health, helping to reduce the stigma attached to both.
Cllr Maureen McLaughlin, Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Social Care said: “World Suicide Prevention Day gives us a chance to think about the ways we can support those around us, have open conversations about the impact of suicide, and raise awareness for anyone who is finding it hard to cope.
“The ‘Hope 100’ walk is a great way of demonstrating our shared commitment to helping those in need whenever we can, as is paying a visit to the mental health living room in Golden Square Shopping Centre, on Wednesday 10 September.”
Naz Ghodrati, Chief Executive of Warrington Voluntary Action said: “The pop-up mental health living room is about bringing voluntary and community-based groups and organisations together so people can see the amazing mental health support our voluntary sector groups provide to local residents.
“This event is a perfect chance to meet group leaders, find out about the wide variety of mental health support available, have a chat and feel listened to.
“We are proud to showcase the inspiring people who are delivering quality-assured groups and organisations and really helping people to improve their mental wellbeing.”
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, please visit the mental health website Happy? Ok? Sad? to access a range of support, help and advice.
