Rochdale, Oldham and District Samaritans aim to spread hope across the local area on World Suicide Prevention Day

Rochdale, Oldham and district Samaritans logo

To mark World Suicide Prevention Day (Friday 10 September) Rochdale, Oldham and District Samaritans are encouraging people in the local area to talk to each other and share the things in life that give them hope.

After a hugely challenging 18 months, volunteers are aiming to help the local community remain hopeful by asking residents what they do to help maintain their wellbeing, in line with this year’s theme Creating Hope Through Action.

Volunteers from the branch will be attending Rochdale Railway Station at various times throughout the day, talking to people and giving out resources with contact details on them. 

With the long-term effects of the pandemic likely to be felt for several years, sharing ways of remaining hopeful could support anyone struggling to cope and be an important reminder that you do not have to struggle alone, help and support is available.

Spending time in nature, exercising, baking, listening to music, and drawing are just a handful of examples that can help boost people’s mood, among plenty of other actions.

To help inspire people, Samaritans has created several new resources, including suggested activities, useful tips, and a mood-boosting playlist.

Director of the local branch of Samaritans, Moyra Purves said: “The pandemic’s challenges are continuing and won’t immediately ease off with restrictions lifting. Therefore, it’s vitally important we do everything we can to help anyone who needs support.

“Taking the time to enjoy your favourite activities, whatever they are – something easy and every day, or something more strenuous or creative – can be great ways to spread hope and look after your mental wellbeing.

“Whether it’s a group activity or something can you do in your own time, sharing ideas about what you turn to when you’re feeling low is a simple yet effective way to help friends and family who are struggling. You don’t have to be an expert to make a difference, and potentially save someone’s life.”

Throughout World Suicide Prevention Day, Samaritans will be sharing useful content on its Instagram, Twitter and Facebook pages, asking people what they do when they’re not feeling hopeful, providing tips for creating hope and sharing case studies exploring the meaning of hope.

Anyone can contact Samaritans, free, 24/7, 365 days a year, on 116 123, email jo@samaritans.org or visit www.samaritans.org.