Landmarks lit up for suicide prevention campaign

Public buildings across Essex are being lit up green to raise awareness about suicide prevention.

Hospitals in Basildon, Southend-on-Sea and Broomfield have all joined the initiative, which runs until Friday.

Other landmarks to be illuminated included Colchester Castle, the Harlow Civic Centre and County Hall in Chelmsford.

Lynne Morgan, of Thurrock and Brentwood Mind, said removing the stigma surrounding talking about suicide had never been more "vital".

A total of 131 people took their life in Essex in 2022, said the Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust, which runs the three hospitals that are participating.

Suicide prevention training would be made available for free to people across the county during the week-long campaign.

The trust's deputy director of mental health, Alfred Bandakpara-Taylor, said: "Seeking support when we are feeling low and/or anxious can be difficult, but the earlier individuals reach out for support the better.

"Whether it is lighting a building green, talking to other people about preventing suicide or taking the training - you may help save someone’s life."

If you have been affected by the topic discussed in this article, support is available via the BBC Action Line.

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