In preparation for this year's World Suicide Prevention Day on 10th September, Somerset County Council's Public Health team are asking members of the public to share quotes, lyrics or poems that have helped them to get through difficult times in their lives.

Contributions will then be compiled in to a digital 'Book of Hope', together with signposting to local mental health services and support. The project will be unveiled at an event 'Walk For A Life' at Somerset County Cricket Ground on Saturday 10 September.

The event aims to raises awareness of suicide in Somerset and is supported by partners including Somerset Foundation Trust, Open Mental Health and Stepladder. On the day, attendees will walk a route through Taunton Town Centre in memory of all those impacted by suicide within the County. They will then end the walk at the Somerset County Cricket Ground, where a number of local partners and stakeholders will be on hand to offer information and advice.

Cllr Adam Dance, Lead Executive Member for Public Health, Equalities and Diversity said: "World Suicide Prevention Day is a day to raise awareness of how we can help each other and reduce the stigma that surrounds talking about suicide. The theme this year is 'creating hope through action' and we hope that by reaching out to communities in Somerset and creating our Book of Hope, we can create a valuable resource which could support others through difficult times in the future."

The International Association for Suicide Prevention who run the World Suicide Prevention Day campaign each year state that: "By encouraging understanding, reaching in and sharing experiences, we want to give people the confidence to take action. To prevent suicide requires us to become a beacon of light to those in pain. You can be the light."

Please send contributions to [email protected] using the subject "Book of Hope"

Or tag your posts on social media using the hashtag #SomersetBookOfHope

If you, or someone you know needs support, there are a number of organisations in Somerset that specialise in support related to suicide and mental health:

·         Somerset Mindline's helpline is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. It is for anyone of any age in Somerset who is experiencing mental distress or wanting emotional support. Call 01823 276 892 or 0800 138 1692.

·         The Somerset Suicide Bereavement Support Service is available for anyone who has been bereaved or affected by suicide. Call 0300 330 5463.

·         The Farming Community Network is a voluntary organisation and charity that supports farmers and families within the farming community through difficult times. Visit www.fcn.org.uk, or call 01934 712128.

·         The Samaritans are available to listen 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Call free on 116 123 or text SHOUT to 85258.

·         If you work or volunteer in health and care in Somerset and need to talk, the Somerset Emotional Wellbeing Resilience Hub is there for you. Please call the dedicated, confidential Colleague Support Line for help with a trained professional on 0300 124 5595 or visit www.somersetemotionalwellbeing.org to discover all the support options that are open to you.