HLH Libraries partner with Samaritans for National Suicide Prevention Week

Every 10 seconds a Samaritans volunteer will answer a call for help from someone who may be considering taking their own life.

 

In recognition of National Suicide Prevention Week (Sunday 10th September to Saturday 16th September 2023), High Life Highland partnered with Samaritans to raise awareness of the importance of Samaritans services for those who need it most.

 

One way in which the partnership took form was in the distribution of free bookmarks to High Life Highland’s Libraries across Lochaber.

 

These bookmarks contain the contact details for Samaritans, and serve as reminders that there are people who are here to listen when times are tough.

 

Fiona Thompson, Samaritans Scotland West Highlands and Skye Project Manager, added: “We know that issues of isolation, access to health services and stigma can often make seeking help and support challenging in a rural area.

 

“Our West Highlands and Skye project aims to raise awareness of Samaritans services by engaging with local communities across the area, and we are delighted to have the support of High Life Highland in helping us achieve this.

 

“We hope as many people as possible pick up a free bookmark at their local library – and that it encourages anyone who needs support to reach out.”

 

Samaritans has 19 branches spread across Scotland, whose volunteers are at the other end of the phone 24/7, 365-days-a-year, ready to listen.

 

Samaritans bookmarks may still be found at 41 of High Life Highlands Libraries including Plockton, Kyle Broadford, Portree, Fort William and Ardnamurchan as well as Brora Mobile, Skye Mobile and Fort William Mobile.

 

More information on Samaritans and how to get in touch can be found at

 

www.samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/contact-samaritan/.

 

Photograph: High Life Highland teamed up with Samaritans for National Suicide Prevention Week. NO_F39_HighLifeHighland_Samaritans