World Suicide Prevention Day is 10th September 2022.
Support is always within Reach
Due to be launched is a Campaign focused on Gillingham and an area of West Dorset headed by Dorset’s Suicide Prevention Group. Mental Health North Dorset Help and Peer support has been fully involved with the planning of this.
See https://www.publichealthdorset.org.uk/news/support-is-always-within-reach-1
Press Release dated 3rd September
Support is always within reach
Dorset’s Suicide Prevention Group launches new rural mental health campaign for World Suicide Prevention Day (Saturday 10 September)
Almost a quarter of Dorset’s population live in rural areas and for those who are struggling, or facing mental health difficulties, that can sometimes feel isolating. Research indicates that suicide rates nationally are higher in rural communities, so Dorset’s Suicide Prevention Group is launching a new campaign this World Suicide Prevention Day (10 September) to remind people that wherever you are, and whatever you’re facing, support is always within reach.
Simply talking to someone about what you’re going through can make a huge difference. And however difficult it might seem, there is always someone to turn to.
Trevor Cligg is a farmer in West Dorset who has faced mental health difficulties: “A lot of people out there are struggling. Some withdraw and others, like myself, hide in plain sight. But talking about it is the biggest thing you can do to help – to whoever, be it your family, your friends, counsellors, doctors. Just talk about it.”
If you don’t feel comfortable talking to friends or family, you can speak to your GP or contact any of these free support services, which are on-hand to help 24/7:
- Dorset’s NHS mental health helpline Connection – call 0800 652 0190
- Samaritans – call 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org and someone will get back to you within 24 hours
- Text ‘SHOUT’ to 85258 for confidential support via text message
Sophia Callaghan, Public Health Consultant at Public Health Dorset, is the co-chair of Dorset’s Suicide Prevention Group: “Dorset has some wonderful rural communities but if you’re having a tough time, it might feel like help is far away,” she explains. “Our Suicide Prevention Group works in partnership to help those in crisis and signpost to the support that is available across our county – because wherever you are, you’re never alone.”
“Help is always available, whether it’s through a friend or family member, your doctor, or simply a listening ear on a helpline. You can also contact Dorset’s brilliant social prescribers through your GP surgery to access activities and support in your area. You might be surprised at what’s on your doorstep, even in smaller rural communities – there are wellbeing activities, support groups and drop-in services across Dorset.”
Suzanne Green, Programme Lead for Mental Health at NHS Dorset, urged people to look out for others too: “It can be tough for people to admit they’re struggling. If you’re worried about someone, don’t be afraid to ask how they are. And remember, we often say we’re fine when we’re not, so ask again if you’re worried. Even if they don’t want to open up then and there, they’ll still know you’re there for them.
“The Samaritans have some great advice on how to spot when someone is struggling, how to support others and how to listen at www.samaritans.org”.
Find out more about the Within Reach campaign, as well as support and wellbeing activities in some of Dorset’s rural communities, at www.lightonmh.uk/withinreach
Contact: For more information or if you would like to be interviewed about your experience contact Karen Hollocks on 07725 110872 or email karen.hollocks@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk
About Dorset’s Suicide Prevention Group
Dorset’s Suicide Prevention Group is a multi-agency group working together to prevent all deaths by suicide. The group is made up of organisations from the community, voluntary and charity sector working hand in hand with statutory organisations including NHS services, local councils, public health, police and fire services.
Dorset has a suicide prevention strategy. It is the shared vision of all partners signed up to the suicide prevention strategy that “no one of any age living in Dorset will reach the point where they feel or believe that they have no other choice but to attempt suicide or to end their life by suicide”.
Find out more at ourdorset.org.uk/wellbeing/suicide/
Real-life stories
Watch the Farming Community Network’s full interview with West Dorset farmer Trevor Cligg at www.youtube.com/watch?v=B6U7oT_kdVk
About World Suicide Prevention Day
World Suicide Prevention Day takes place every year on 10 September and sees organisations from around the world coming together to raise awareness and campaign to see fewer people die by suicide.
References
- Evidence that suicide rates are higher in rural areas – Samaritans, 2022, Local Government Association, 2017
- 23% of the population in the county of Dorset (including BCP Council and Dorset Council areas) is classified as rural – Population data analysis, 2022
- 46% of Dorset Council population live in rural areas – State of Dorset report, 2019 (file:///C:/Users/karen.hollocks/Downloads/Reports_Uploads_State%20of%20Dorset%20Deprivation%202019%20RevA%20(1).pdf)
