People from across Somerset came together to remember loved ones and support suicide prevention on the 5th of September at the Taunton Walk for a Life event. The yearly walk raises awareness and aims to reduce stigma and encourage action to help prevent suicide.
Walkers gathered at the Quaker Meeting House, 13 Bath Place, at 10.00 am, where they were able to write the name of a loved one or their reasons for walking on signs worn on their backs.
After a short welcome speech, the group followed a wheelchair- and pushchair-friendly route through Taunton town centre and into Vivary Park, where they laid flowers in remembrance of loved ones lost to suicide.
The walkers then returned to the Meeting House for tea and coffee and refreshments, and an opportunity to speak with support staff and other people affected by suicide.
The well-attended event was emotional but also comforting, as walkers supported one another. Somerset Suicide Bereavement Support Service displayed the newly extended Speak Their Name Quilt, which some of the walkers saw for the first time.
Walk for a Life, Shepton Mallet, Thursday, 17th September.
There is another opportunity to walk in solidarity with others affected by suicide in Shepton Mallet on Thursday, 17th September. The walk starts at 5.30 pm from Shepton Mallet Library, 2 Market Place, Shepton Mallet, BA4 5AZ, and follows a wheelchair- and pushchair-friendly loop around Collett Park. You can enjoy refreshments and an opportunity to connect and reflect afterwards back at the library from 6.30 pm – 8.30 pm
Mental Health Support in Somerset
When we are in a dark place, it can feel like ending our life is the only solution. But we know that recovery is possible. There are practical steps we can take to stay safe, and with the right support, we can start to feel more hopeful and back in control of our lives.
If you are struggling and need someone to talk to, please call Mindline Somerset locally on 01823 276892 or freephone 0800 138 1692. You can also arrange a Crisis Safe Space appointment either by calling the numbers above or by booking online.
For more information about suicide prevention and mental health support in Somerset, please see our recent article, Suicide Prevention Day: Let’s Talk about Suicide.