During the Walk for a Life event on Saturday, 7th September 2024, there was a moment when the participants, gathered to remember loved ones lost to suicide, silently laid flowers on a bench.
Even the strongest hurricane has a calm centre—a place of respite where travellers gain strength before facing the wind’s fierceness again.
For many walkers dealing with the complex grief left by suicide, laying flowers in Vivary Park provided a moment of calm in an emotional storm. It renewed their determination to spread the hopeful message of World Suicide Prevention Day.
As reported in the Somerset County Gazette, people from every corner of Somerset attended to share their experiences and build connections.
The walk followed a route from the Quaker Meeting House on Bath Place, around Taunton, and through the park, where participants inaugurated Somerset’s first “Support Bench” Just as the walk united Somerset residents in an act of remembrance, the benches are a place of connection and support for those struggling with their mental health.
Developed in partnership with people who have personal experience of dealing with mental health challenges, support benches aim to make mental health care more accessible. These green seats feature the words “Come sit with us” along with contact information for SHOUT and the Samaritans and a QR code linking to more support resources, including Open Mental Health.
Walk for a Life reinforces the message that support is only a phone call away. If you are experiencing suicidal thoughts or are worried about someone else, call Mindline Somerset locally on 01823 276892 or freephone 0800 138 1692 any time of the day or night.
Crisis Safe Space is an out-of-hours service for anyone struggling with mental health issues. You can arrange a one-to-one session with a member of the Crisis Safe Space team who will listen and help. Sessions are held face-to-face or virtually, depending on your location. You can refer yourself or someone you are worried about by calling the Mindline Somerset numbers above or booking online.