World Suicide Prevention Day - Friday, 10 September, 2021
World Suicide Prevention Day (WSPD) takes place this year on Friday, 10 September, 2021 and is hosted by the International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP).
The global theme for WSPD this year is ‘Creating Hope Through Action’ and is a reminder that there is an alternative to suicide and aims to inspire confidence and awareness in all of us; that our actions, no matter how big or small, may provide hope to those who are struggling.
Through action, it is believed that anyone can make a difference to someone in their darkest moments - as a member of society, as a child, as a parent, as a friend, as a colleague, as a neighbour or as a police officer or member of police staff. We can all play a role in supporting those experiencing a suicidal crisis or those bereaved by suicide.
Police Scotland is proud to support the work of Scotland’s National Suicide Prevention Leadership Group and is a key stakeholder of the delivery of its suicide prevention action plan, Every Life Matters.
As an organisation we recognise that every person lost to suicide is a tragedy, for their loved ones, their colleagues, and society as a whole. Police Scotland firmly believe suicide is everyone’s business, and as such, is an integral part of the successful Distress Brief Interventions programme.
We understand the past 18 months has seen even more stress placed on our communities because of the coronavirus pandemic. If you, or someone you know, are struggling, there are several things that you can do:
- Speak to a friend, family member or someone you trust
- Call the Samaritans 24-hour support service on 116 123
- Call Breathing Space on 0800 83 85 87 (Monday-Thursday 6pm-2am, Friday 6pm-Monday 6am)
- Contact NHS 111
- Make an urgent appointment to see your GP
- Go to your nearest accident and emergency (A&E) department and talk to the crisis team there.
