Somerset Suicide Prevention
Exciting News: Joining the National Lib Dem Mental Health Group to Shape Policy
I am delighted to announce that I have been selected to join the newly established Mental Health Policy Group by the National Liberal Democrats party. This initiative presents a vital opportunity to address the pressing mental health challenges faced by our communities in Somerset and across the UK. As a Parliamentary candidate and Deputy Chair…
Read More“What has Somerset Council ever done for you, apart from what we do?”
Yesterday, during the Full Council meeting of Somerset Council, I responded to the annual report on Public Health. Below is what I said, along with some additional notes. Recently, I heard the remark: “What has Somerset Council ever done for you, apart from what we do?” Public Health is a crucial aspect of the Council’s…
Read MoreWe need to talk: World Suicide Prevention Day
A recent poll* found that only 45% of people feel comfortable talking to family and friends about suicidal thoughts, compared to 74% who said they feel comfortable talking about mental health. World Suicide Prevention Day is a chance to change this. By talking more openly about suicide, we can give people the chance to express…
Read MoreSuicide Prevention Work in Somerset Update
When I joined Somerset Council’s Adults and Health Scrutiny Committee, in 2022, I asked that suicide prevention was added to the work programme. Last week we had an update on a new (draft) Somerset suicide prevention strategy that is supporting a new national strategy, which was launched September last year. The draft strategy draws on…
Read MoreFinding my quiet spot – reflecting on suicide prevention
Had to find a quiet spot near my home after 3.5 hours of Suicide Alert – Every Life Matters training I helped to organise for a group of Somerset Council Councillors. In Somerset we have higher than average annual rates of suicide. One person every 90 minutes takes their life in the UK. Globally it…
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