Spot the Signs campaign launches free life-saving App
About the campaign
The App’s aim is to help people in times of crisis to feel that suicide is not their only option. It has tools to help keep people safer, together with details of the emergency or support services to contact in Hertfordshire.
The team behind the Hertfordshire University Foundation NHS Trust (HPFT) Spot the Signs and Save a Life campaign hosted a launch event on 9 May. It was attended by representatives from the Hertfordshire Suicide Prevention Network and other organisations who are all keen to support people in Hertfordshire with mental health problems.
Suicide rate statistics
According to Office of National Statistics in 2017 the highest suicide rate in the UK was for men aged 45-49. The Hertfordshire Suicide Audit 2015/16 identified a total of 56 deaths by suicide in Hertfordshire and 50% of those who took their own lives were by people who had not accessed mental health services.
HPFT’s Chief Executive Tom Cahill commented:
"Every suicide is devastating for the vulnerable person, as well as their family, friends and colleagues. Pooling our ideas and working together to help prevent suicides happening and to raise awareness is the best way forward.
We’re keen to use digital technology to help us to reach the vast numbers of people who primarily use their phones to find information. The Stay Alive App is for anyone who experiences suicidal thoughts, as well as those who might be worried about somebody else. Helping spread the word and encouraging people to download and start using this App could save somebody’s life."
Informing family and friends of the death of our son, was the hardest thing we have ever had to do. We feel the App will help reduce the number of people experiencing a similar situation.
The Stay Alive App was developed by Grassroots – a charity specialising in suicide prevention.
It includes a self-care section which includes breathing exercises and a LifeBox for storing special memories including photos and inspirational quotes.
You can download the App onto your phone for free from their website.
