Suicide prevention campaign steps up a gear to encourage talking to save lives as lockdown eases

Everyone across Lancashire and South Cumbria is being encouraged to talk to friends and family members, helplines and debt support services as lockdown restrictions ease.

As the third national Coronavirus lockdown comes to an end, and people take stock of their lives, the local health and care partnership has launched the next phase of its Let’s Keep Talking campaign.

People furloughed, unemployed or coping with a drop in self-employed work are being asked to start a conversation with loved ones, or reach out to telephone counselling services to address any concerns, take practical steps, and get help with their mental health.

It is more important than ever for people to reach out to local and national services for help as they battle the effects of the pandemic – particularly health and care workers and those who have taken an active role in supporting communities through the effects and challenges of the pandemic over the past 12 months.

ICS Suicide Prevention Programme lead, Louise Thomas said:

“I cannot overstate how important it is for people to keep talking to one another as lockdown restrictions ease. This can be a very difficult time for a lot of people, who have already had a challenging 12 months. As restrictions are lifted it is more important than ever for people to reach out, by talking on the phone or by video message to others, we can share the load. There is always someone to talk to, and there are many organisations out there ready to offer a listening ear.”

The ICS website contains resources, information, support organisations and other websites to help support your mental health, or if you’re worried about the mental health of someone else.