Events have been held in Bury to raise awareness of the help and support available to individuals and their families affected by suicide.
Greater Manchester marks its fifth Month of Hope – 10 September to 10 October – as part of the NHS Shining a Light on suicide campaign.
This aims to destigmatise the issue and encourage meaningful discussions.
In Bury, families who have been affected by suicide have produced a ‘Speak Their Name Quilt’ which is on display at Bury Art Gallery until 10 October.
The quilt tells the stories of 54 people from across Greater Manchester.
It was commissioned by Greater Manchester Health and Social Care Partnership and developed by Rebecca Jackson, founder of Bury charity The Big Fandango.
Rebecca’s daughter took her own life, and she firmly believes crafting can provide support to families affected by suicide.
She said: “What I know is sewing and knitting saved my life and I would like to transfer those skills to people in a similar position as me.
“Please educate yourself around suicide because it is complicated. Suicide prevention is all our collective responsibility.”
A vigil and March were held on Sunday, heading from Kay Gardens to the Castle Leisure Centre Gardens where flowers were laid at the Suicide Memorial Stone. Around 50 flags were carried representing the lives lost to suicide in Bury over the last three years.
Cllr Tamoor Tariq, cabinet member for adult care, health and wellbeing, said: “Feeling suicidal is more common than you may realise, which is why having open conversations is a great way to take the first step to recovery and reduce the stigma around suicide and mental health.
“If you or someone you know is struggling with their mental health and suicidal thoughts, there is support available across Bury so please do not hesitate to reach out and ask for help when you need it.”
For support please visit www.shiningalightonsuicide.org.uk or call Samaritans on 116 123.
