A self-help group to support people affected by suicide in St Helens, Halton and Warrington will launch this Spring.
Research shows that more than 50 local people lost their lives through suicide during 2009 and 2010 and the group will help support people who are affected by the loss of a loved one in this way. It is a partnership between the NHS, the Health Improvement Team and the charity 'Survivors of Bereavement by Suicide (SoBS).'
The group will meet monthly for practical and emotional support. In the next few weeks, volunteers will be identified and trained to run the group. If anyone is interested in this opportunity, contact Andrew Perkins, Health Improvement Specialist on 01744 457297 or email: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
Survivors of Bereavement by Suicide nationally offer a confidential telephone helpline, support information, help by email and residential events. Further details can be found on their website www.uk-sobs.org.uk
If you have suicidal thoughts, contact your GP as soon as you can. Your GP will be able to give you details of local support and information. If your GP surgery is closed, you will be given the details of an out of hours doctor. You can also ring the Samaritans 24 hours a day on 08457 90 90 90. Details of other helplines can be found at http://www.rethink.org/living_with_mental_illness/coping_in_a_crisis/crisis_and_emotional.html