Several events and initiatives are taking place with the message ‘Let’s Talk’ at the heart of the awareness raising campaign.

Last year alone, 48 people in North Lanarkshire took their own lives with 784 deaths from suicide being recorded across Scotland.

Lynne MacDonald, Suicide Prevention Lead in North Lanarkshire said: “Having so many different events taking place this year to raise awareness and help prevent the tragedy of suicide is an enormous step forward. The last 18 months, throughout the pandemic, have been so difficult for everyone and many people are concerned about anxiety, depression and loneliness.

“We want to share the message as far and as wide as possible that help is available and encouraging people to talk openly about suicide can make a massive difference towards saving lives.”

Two walk and talk events begin at Forgewood Community Centre on Friday 3 and Saturday 4 September at 7:30pm and everyone is welcome to come along to raise awareness in the heart of the community.

On Wednesday 8 September, Wishaw Sports Centre will host a special sports class focusing on how fitness and exercise can help reduce anxiety and depression and share the message that help is available.

Golf will then lead the drive to encourage people to talk openly about suicide with an all-day golf tournament taking place at Palacerigg Golf Course on Friday 10 September. Teeing off with a shotgun challenge and then a Texas scramble competition, entry fees will be donated to the Samaritans charity.

Pubs and clubs across Lanarkshire are also helping by providing beer mats with details about suicide prevention and helplines. And the four professional football teams in North Lanarkshire - Albion Rovers, Airdrieonians, Clyde FC and Motherwell FC will be helping to raise awareness on their strips, match programmes and social media channels.

And later this year, plans are being put in place for a return of the annual football and netball tournaments at the Ravenscraig Sports Facility with the proceeds going to the Samaritans charity.

Paul Kelly, Depute Leader of North Lanarkshire Council said: “We are asking everyone to be alert to the warning signs of suicide. If you are worried about someone, a friend, family member or workmate, asking them directly about their feelings can make all the difference.

“Let’s Talk is the message we want to get across as we try to encourage everyone to talk more openly about suicide. Every life matters and we can all play our part in helping to prevent it.”

To find out more about Suicide Prevention in North Lanarkshire visit: www.northlanarkshire.gov.uk/talk