Residents are being invited to walk together for hope to mark World Suicide Prevention Day.
The day, taking place on Tuesday 10 September, is a chance for people to come together, raise awareness and take meaningful steps towards preventing suicide and supporting those who may be struggling to cope.
The theme for 2024-2026 is “Changing the Narrative on Suicide” with the call to action “Start the Conversation”. This theme aims to raise awareness about the importance of reducing stigma and encouraging open conversations to prevent suicides.
Before World Suicide Prevention Day itself, everyone is being invited to come together for Warrington’s annual ‘Hope 100’ walk- on Sunday, 8 September.
Organised by Warrington Borough Council, Warrington Speak Up, Warrington Wolves Foundation, LiveWire and the Directions for Men & the Armed Forces Community Hub are all coming together to host Warrington’s ‘Hope 100’ walk.
The free walk takes place every year. It provides an opportunity for people of all ages who may be struggling with the challenges of life to connect and unite.
It also gives people a chance to have conversations, share experiences, support one another or just to be silent and take time to reflect.
The name Hope 100 is linked to the statistic that 1 in 100 deaths worldwide are due to suicide.
Starting at the Halliwell Jones Stadium (Warrington) in the early hours of Sunday morning, the route will be 10 miles in total and will follow a circular route, arriving back at the start point in time for sunrise. An accessible walk will also be available (1.5 miles) and will leave from Victoria Park at 6.30am. The first group will meet the second group to complete the end of the walk together.
At the end of the circular route, there will be an opportunity to reflect as well as enjoying a warm drink as the sun comes up at the home of the Warrington Wolves.
- 10-mile walk – arrive at 2.45am, at The Halliwell Jones Stadium, WA2 7NE
- 1.5-mile walk – arrive at 6.30am, at Victoria Park, Knutsford Road, WA4 1DJ
If you wish to take part in the walk you will need to register. Please note the minimum age for walking solo is 18 years old. Anyone between the ages of 12-17 years old must be accompanied by an adult.
This World Suicide Prevention day and throughout the year people are being reminded that they can get a range of support, help and advice from the mental health website for Warrington – Happy? Ok? Sad?.
Cllr Maureen McLaughlin, Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Social Care said “World Suicide Prevention Day gives us the opportunity to reflect on the devastating effects suicide has on families and communities. It reminds us that we can all play a part in supporting those around us by simply taking the time to reach out to a friend, or a family member we can make a real difference to their lives.
“If you or someone you know is struggling with their mental health, know that you are not alone and there are lots of places you can go to get help. Including our Happy? OK? Sad? website. It’s important that we raise awareness for anyone who is finding it hard to cope, or feeling desperate, so that they know there is always someone to turn too.
“We can all play a part in this and the ‘Hope 100’ walk is a fantastic way of demonstrating our shared commitment to helping those in need whenever we can. Whether you are taking part in the full walk or the shorter route you will receive a warm welcome.”
