Shepton Mallet will hold its first Walk for a Life this month, bringing people together to remember those lost to suicide and raise awareness of support available in Somerset.

The Somerset Council event will begin at Shepton Mallet Library at 5.30 pm on Thursday, 17 September, before following a 1.1-mile loop around Collett Park.

Organisers say the walk is intended to provide a space to remember those who have died, raise awareness and encourage positive action around suicide prevention.

The route follows paved footpaths and tarmac throughout, with gentle gradients and around 21 metres of ascent. It has been designed to be suitable for most walkers and pushchairs, while some wheelchair and mobility scooter users may also be able to complete it depending on individual needs.

Some sections are narrow, however, and participants are being advised to take extra care when passing other park users.

After the walk, participants are invited back to Shepton Mallet Library, 2 Market Place, where refreshments will be available from 6.30 pm until 8.30 pm and people will have an opportunity to connect and reflect.

Additional support will also be available during the evening through The Mind Hub at 57c High Street, for anyone who feels they need to speak to somebody.

Children attending the walk must be supervised, while well-behaved dogs should be kept on short leads. Only assistance dogs are allowed inside Shepton Mallet Library.

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Organisers are also asking participants to wear suitable footwear for the route.

Anyone with questions about the event can contact Somerset Council's public health team at [email protected].

The event information also highlights Mindline, Somerset's confidential 24-hour emotional support and mental health helpline, which offers a listening service for anyone in distress or concerned about somebody they know.

Mindline can be contacted locally on 01823 276 892 or free on 0800 138 1692.

The first Shepton Mallet Walk for a Life takes place on Thursday, 17 September from 5.30 pm, starting and finishing at Shepton Mallet Library.

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