Senior officers from Police Scotland, Scottish Fire and Rescue, North Lanarkshire Council and NHS Lanarkshire took to the streets in a specially-wrapped vehicle promoting helpline numbers as part of the ‘Surviving Christmas’ campaign. As leaders of major organisations, they want to directly address the stigma around suicide to both staff and to communities to encourage people to open up and talk about how they feel.

The streetscene van will be visible throughout the area over the coming months to encourage people to pick up the phone for support, particularly at this time of year.  

Paul Kelly, Depute Leader of North Lanarkshire Council explained: “The festive season and new year can be particularly hard for many people who are feeling lonely, depressed or suicidal. It’s a time that people sometimes need that extra bit of support and talking to someone at the end of the phone can really help.

“Whether you work for one of the partner organisations or you live in one of our towns and communities, someone will always have time to listen to you. It’s vital that we become more used to talking about this issue openly.

“The newly wrapped van is a great way to get the message about suicide awareness into the heart of our communities. The van is very bright, very visible and carries helpline support numbers for those who may be struggling particularly at this time of year. The team driving the van have undertaken suicide prevention training and are happy to talk to anyone about suicide as they go about their duties.”

The council has also launched its festive guide ‘Surviving Christmas’ to support people who may be feeling lonely or vulnerable and give them advice on how to stay safe and get help if they need it. The guide contains information to help people cope with a range of issues including debt, stress and loneliness.

Lynne MacDonald, Suicide Prevention Lead said: “Our ‘Surviving Christmas’ guide is aimed at people who may be experiencing low mood, anxiety, or stress at this time of the year. The festive season is a happy occasion for many, but it can be very challenging for others.

“The last couple of years have been very difficult for everyone, and lots of people have worries about their own mental health and of those they care about. It is vital people know that help and support is available to them at all times.”

Councillor Kelly added: “The emotional impact on families, friends and communities bereaved by suicide is devastating and can have awful long-lasting effect on those left behind. If you’re worried about someone, a friend or a family member, asking them directly about their feelings can help to save their life.

“By taking the time to show you care and are there to listen, you could change their life.”