Suicide Prevention
Aim: To support implementation of the Scottish Government 'Every Life Matters' Strategy on Suicide Prevention, within the heightened economic and social pressures felt by individuals throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.
A local Suicide Prevention Action Group has established, with virtual monthly meetings pooling knowledge and experience from across a wide range of community organisations and statutory partners in Argyll and Bute.
A comprehensive and detailed Suicide Prevention Action Plan specific to the local context and profile of Argyll and Bute was created, building upon existing Suicide Prevention work.
The Action Plan commits to making Argyll and Bute a Suicide Safer Community. Through learning and improvement, we minimise the risk of suicide by delivering better services, building stronger, more connected communities.
Friendship Benches
As part of community engagement, Argyll and Bute Suicide Prevention Strategy Group, in partnership with Police Scotland, identified Friendship Benches as a means to reduce stigma and encourage people to talk. It was agreed the creation of Friendship Benches were a great way to encourage people to get outdoors and start a conversation with others. They provide somewhere to simply sit and enjoy the outdoors and people are encouraged to ask persons sitting on the bench “are you ok?”
The Friendship benches are an example of the local community working collaboratively. The benches are made by the Men Sheds group in Dunoon. The group used bright colours to paint each of the handmade benches and affix each one with a plaque.
These Friendship Benches were offered to community councils throughout Argyll and Bute- look out for these benches.
Suicide Prevention Song
A local singer song writer, Jamie Titterton wrote “Talk Me Down”, produced by his band Jacob and the Starry Eyed Shadows to raise local awareness about suicide and encourage suicide prevention. Jamie approached United to Prevent Suicide and the A&B Suicide Prevention Strategy Group who welcomed the opportunity to work with Jamie and support the release of this song and accompanying video which provides messages of support, encourages people to talk and provides information about suicide.
Talk Me Down was released on World Suicide Day which was the 10th of September 2021. The A&B Suicide Prevention Strategy Group also helped to raise awareness of the release of the song by sharing it on social media and providing articles for local newspapers. The song is available on platforms such as Apple Music, Spotify, Amazon and YouTube where the video has had just under 300 views. All the proceeds of the song will go towards the work of the A&B Suicide Prevention Strategy Group
If you are struggling with thoughts of suicide right now, tell someone you trust as soon as possible - if you don't know who to tell:
Offering confidential, non-judgemental support, call Samaritans on 116 123, they are there 24 hours a day
Breathing Space is a free, confidential phone and web-based service for people in Scotland experiencing low mood, depression or anxiety. They are here in times of difficulty to provide a safe and supportive space by listening, offering advice and information.
‘Sometimes our thoughts and feelings can overwhelm us. It helps to get some Breathing Space. Pick up the phone- we’re here to listen.’
Breathing Space Scotland
0800 838587
6pm-2am Mon- Thurs
& 6pm Fri-6am Mon
Text SHOUT to 85258 for free and confidential support 27/7
Training
Free online Suicide Prevention training is available for HSCP staff on Turas.