Suicide awareness walk in memory of teen

The family of a teenager who took his own life are hosting a suicide awareness walk around their town.

Kai Harvey, from Rugeley in Staffordshire, died in 2020 at the age of 17.

Kai's Memory Miles is a remembrance event that is also designed to share the importance of suicide prevention.

The walk will take place on Saturday 28 September at 11:00 BST, starting at the Mindfulness Garden in Brook Square, where people can gather from 10:30 BST.

A family statement explained: "Kai was a much-loved member of the community and he is missed every single day.

"The walk is an open invite to anyone who wishes to join, whether it is to remember a loved one, help spread awareness and prevention, or just show support."

The walk will take people through a route that holds significant meaning to Kai's family and friends, including walking past The Hart School, where he was a pupil.

The route will be marked with teal-coloured ribbons, symbolizing suicide prevention, and members of Survivors of Bereavement by Suicide (SOBS) will be present along the way to provide support and to chat with anyone who feels they need to talk.

Participants are encouraged to carry banners and wear t-shirts that honour their loved ones

"This event is intended to be a comforting space where anyone who has been touched by this issue — what the Harvey family calls 'the club that no one wants to belong to' — can come together, share their experiences, and find understanding and support," the statement continued.

"Whether you have been personally affected or simply want to show your support, all are welcome to join this vital cause which carries such a significant message for so many members of our community."

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