Council shows support for World Suicide Prevention Day
Inverclyde Council is supporting World Suicide Prevention Day by lighting up the iconic Shipbuilders statue in Port Glasgow yellow and orange.
This year’s awareness day on Tuesday, September 10, has the theme ‘Changing the narrative on suicide’ with the call to action, ‘Start the Conversation’.
This theme aims to raise awareness about the importance of reducing stigma and encouraging open conversations to prevent suicides.
Recent statistics from National Records Scotland showed there were 10 deaths by suicide in Inverclyde in 2023, the same as in 2022.
The multi-agency Inverclyde Suicide Prevention Group, brings together partner organisations working to support individuals and their loved ones impacted by suicide.
Councillor Robert Moran, chair of the Inverclyde Integrated Joint Board, the organisation that oversees local health and social care functions delegated to it by the council/health board and delivered by the HSCP, said: “First of all I’d like to send my sincere condolences to all those people affected by suicide. We must never forget that each number represents a real person and every single death lost to suicide is a tragedy.
“I am pleased that Inverclyde Council is recognising World Suicide Prevention Day in this public way to show the families we care.
“There is great work being done locally and support is out there so please reach out if you or someone you know needs it.”
If you or someone you know is struggling with their mental health or feeling suicidal, please don't hesitate to ask for help by contacting your GP, NHS 24 on 111, Samaritans on 116 123 or Breathing Space on 0800 83 58 87.
For children and young people under the age of 35, contact PAPYRUS Hopeline on 0800 068 4141.