A new initiative has been launched by Ashford Samaritans, supported by Ashford Borough Council, which aims to reduce what has been called the ‘silent epidemic’ of men’s suicide within the borough.
Men are almost three times more likely to take their own lives than women and more middle-aged men are killed by suicide than by cancer, heart disease or traffic accidents.
The campaign, Big Boys Do Cry, aims to break down the barriers preventing men from seeking help when it seems there is nothing left to live for.
Part of this initiative is a poster campaign designed to be displayed above urinals in public conveniences – the ideal place to connect with those who may be considering such action.
On Tuesday 12th July Ashford Mayor Cllr. George Koowaree and Ray Hulme, a founding member of Ashford Samaritans, officially unveiled the new posters in one of the sites.
Cllr Koowaree said: “It saddens me to read how many men feel they have no other option than to take their own lives.
“An initiative like this is vital to reach out to those who may be feeling isolated, letting them know that they are not alone and the support they need is available to them.
“The Samaritans are only a phone call away from helping to change the direction of a person’s life.
“This is why Ashford Borough Council and I wholeheartedly support this new campaign.”
www.samaritans.org/branches/samaritans-ashford-and-tenterden
Samaritans of Ashford and Tenterden
If something’s troubling you, get in touch:
Telephone our branch: (01233) 610000 (local call charges apply)
National telephone: 116 123 (this number is free to call)
Email Samaritans: jo@samaritans.org (UK and ROI)
Visit our branch:
Samaritans Ashford
22 Queen Street
Ashford
Kent
TN23 1RG
Usual hours open to receive callers at the door:
- Mon 08.00-12.00 & 18.00-21.00
- Tues 08.00-21.00
- Weds 10.00-21.00
- Thurs 18.00-21.00
- Fri 10.00-21.00
- Sat 08.00-13.00
- Sun 08.00-12.00
Ashford Borough Council 28 July 2016
/www.ashford.gov.uk/news/big-boys-do-cry-28th-jul-1416/