World Mental Health Day

Sheffield Lord Mayor Tony Downing attended an event held by Sheffield Samaritans in partnership with Sheffield United Community Foundation in support of World Mental Health Day 2019.

The event was held at Sheffield Station with support from Network Rail to raise awareness of the Samaritans’ ‘Real People, Real Stories’ campaign.

Foundation members got behind the project after recognising our fan base demographic of middle-aged men are a high-risk suicide group, making the campaign vital for some of our supporters.

‘Real People, Real Stories’ aims to encourage men who might feel they are struggling to cope, to seek help. Their dedicated website displays real life testimonies from men who have faced similar problems and provides advice, and offers signposting services.

Development manager Levi Ashton said: “It was great to partner up to with the Samaritans for World Mental Health Day.

“We’re always trying to develop and gain funds for our own mental health provisions but the helpline that the Samaritans provide is a crucial service to allow someone to talk to.

“It’s okay, not to be okay, and it’s important people recognise that.”

The friendly volunteers welcomed the Lord Mayor and the Lady Mayoress and spoke to members of the public about how important it is to talk. They offered advice and even cake.

Su Milchard, the chair of Sheffield Samaritans said: “Today was about the importance of talking, especially for men, which is why we were promoting our campaign and why the support of SUCF was especially important. They can directly speak to men, and, of course, Samaritans are here to listen 24/7 every day of the year.”

If you feel you need help to manage your mental health, you can contact the Samaritans national helpline on 116 123 or visit their website at: www.samaritans.org