Somerset marks World Suicide Prevention Day with “Walk for a Life” occasion

Over 100 individuals gathered in Somerset on Saturday to participate within the fourth annual “Walk for a Life” occasion, held to mark World Suicide Prevention Day 2025.

The occasion introduced collectively people, households, neighborhood teams, and professionals to recollect family members misplaced to suicide, and to lift consciousness of suicide prevention throughout the county. The stroll served as a strong reminder of the significance of connection, compassion, and neighborhood in tackling suicide and supporting psychological wellbeing.

Organised by the Somerset Council’s Public Health crew and supported by a spread of companions from the NHS and voluntary sector, “Walk for a Life” continues to develop every year, providing a secure and supportive area for reflection, remembrance, and motion.

Alison Bell, Director of Public Health at Somerset Council, stated: “I need to sincerely thank everybody who joined us for Walk for a Life on Saturday. It was a transferring and highly effective day – an opportunity to come back collectively, keep in mind these we’ve misplaced and present assist for anybody affected by suicide.

“I’m so grateful to everyone who walked alongside us, volunteered their time, or helped make the event possible. By standing together with compassion and hope, we can remove the stigma associated with suicide and encourage a change in the conversation around suicide here in Somerset.”

Participants walked by way of Taunton city centre and into Vivary Park the place flowers have been laid to recollect family members misplaced to suicide. Participants then reunited again at Taunton Meeting home for refreshments and a chance to interact with assist providers, entry assets, and join with others affected by suicide.

The occasion aligns with the worldwide theme for World Suicide Prevention Day 2025: “Changing the Narrative”, which inspires communities to problem stigma, promote hope, and reshape how we discuss suicide and psychological well being.

Suzi Davenport-Hill who’s an Expert by Experience with Open Mental Health delivered the welcome speech on the occasion, Suzi stated “Let’s change the narrative from blame to understanding, it’s time to open conversations, break down barriers and eliminate all stigma. Let’s support changing the narrative by showing the county that we care and that we are listening, creating a culture of empathy and ultimately saving lives”.

For extra info on native suicide prevention initiatives, assist providers, or get entangled, go to Working together to prevent Suicide.

If you want assist along with your psychological well being, you’ll be able to contact Mindline, Somerset’s 24/7 psychological well being helpline on 01823 276 892 or contact 111 and select the psychological well being possibility.

Photos courtesy of Daffodil PR