Suicide Prevention charity Every Life Matters are encouraging people in Cumbria to join others across the world in lighting a candle at 8pm on World Suicide Prevention Day 2023 – to remember those we have lost to suicide, for those living with thoughts of suicide, and to show support for suicide prevention.
Events are being held at 8pm on Sunday 10th September in Barrow, Carlisle, Kendal, Maryport, Penrith and Whitehaven. Those who can’t make the events are encouraged to join others across the world and light a candle in their window at 8pm.
Chris Wood, co-founder and charity manager at Every Life Matters said, “The last few years have been very challenging for many and Cumbria still remains higher than the national average when it comes to suicide. Each one of these deaths is an individual tragedy with the pain and devastation it causes rippling out far and wide across our local communities. These events are an opportunity to remember family members, friends, colleagues, neighbours and community members who have lost their loved ones to suicide and share a moment with others who have felt this loss. The event also serves as a reminder to all those people living with thoughts of suicide that they are not alone.”
These are informal events and people are welcome to turn up to light a candle in memory of a loved one lost to suicide, or to show solidarity with those who are experiencing thoughts of suicide. There is no need to book, there will be no speeches, ceremony or pressure to speak to others. Candles will be available if you can’t bring your own and pictures of a lost loved one and/or messages of support to go with the candles are also welcome. People are encouraged to turn up anytime from 7:00pm onwards, ready for a minute of silence and reflection at 8:00pm.
Members of Every Life Matters and other local groups will be on hand to talk about help available to those bereaved or impacted by suicide and about suicide prevention activity happening across the county.
“Last year’s event was very beautiful and touching. For me it’s been very important to feel part of a shared community in the years after I lost my brother in the most tragic way. This was an event to remember those who we miss so dearly in quiet solidarity. It also makes you realise just how many people have been effected – people that share an understanding of this loss like nobody else ever could”. Lisa – Carlisle
As well as an opportunity to remember all those loved ones lost to suicide, World Suicide Prevention Day is an annual reminder that there is an alternative to suicide and it aims to inspire confidence and light in all of us. That our actions, no matter how big or small, may provide hope to those who are struggling.
List of locations
Barrow-in-Furness | Barrow Town Square, in front of the Town Hall
Carlisle | In the Cathedral Grounds
Kendal | The Bird Cage, on the corner of Stricklandgate and Finkle Street
Maryport | Memorial Gardens
Penrith | Bandstand at Cornmarket
Whitehaven | Grounds of St Nicholas Church
