Firstly, we want to say a very big thank you to everyone who helped in any way with our annual fun run. This year was a truly tremendous turnout with over 600 people taking part on the day. The total amount raised completely exceeded our expectations and we want to extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone who showed their support.
The annual fun run will always be about more than raising money. The ethos is firmly rooted in a fun family day, where everyone can participate and at the same time take a moment to think about mental health and wellbeing and its importance to us all.
Mind Your Head was formed in 2006, following personal experiences of its founding members. The first money was received following the funeral of a family member who died by suicide in 2004 following many years suffering from mental health problems. The first event organised was the annual fun run. It is therefore timely for us to remember that as we look ahead to what we consider to be a really important awareness raising event here in Shetland next week.
Along with Choose Life and partners from the SIC and local NHS team we are touring Shetland with an event called ‘Let’s talk about suicide prevention.” which coincides with Suicide Prevention Awareness Week. Over the last few years, Shetland has had between 1 and 7 suicides per year. Since 2000, 43 lives have been lost to suicide. Every loss is a tragedy to individuals, families and communities.
We really want people to come along and tell us what they think will make a difference. People can speak completely confidentially, the only information we want to capture is what needs to change. An event for professionals is planned for later in the year where we will share this information, anonymously, to assist in planning for services.
During the week we will also be promoting the Choose Life Read between the lines campaign and we hope that people will come along and see us at:
- The Yell Ferry on Monday 9th from 10am to 3pm
- Islesburgh on Tuesday 10th from 10am to 4pm then 6pm to 9pm
- NAFC Marine Centre on Wednesday 11th from 12.30pm to 3.30pm
- Sandwick Youth & Community Centre on Wednesday 11th from 6.30pm to 9pm
- Shetland Marts on Friday 13th from 9am to 2pm
- Bank Lane in Lerwick on Saturday 14th from midday
Although these are very public locations, we will have a van with seating inside for private discussions if preferred. If you are unable to attend any of the scheduled events but would like to share ideas on what you think would make a difference to suicide prevention in Shetland then please email [email protected]
It is important for us to find out what would make a difference to suicide prevention in Shetland and we’d ask you to help us in making this really important first step.
And finally, listen out next week for our advert on SIBC which will advertise the launch of our Real Life Stories project on 17th September. More on that in our news update next week.
Let’s talk about suicide prevention is supported by: SIC, Art Machine, Allied Taxis, Choose Life
Real Life Stories is financially supported by: Awards for all
