ALLAN SPEAKS AT SUICIDE PREVENTION WEEK EVENT

Na h-Eileanan an Iar SNP MSP, Alasdair Allan, spoke yesterday at the launch of Suicide Prevention Awareness Week in the Western Isles.

Dr Allan attended an event with new students at Lews Castle College and also attended the opening of the new Samaritans office in Stornoway.

Alasdair Allan commented:

“Suicide Prevention Awareness Week has become an important annual event in the islands. There is evidence that the messages which this week promotes are beginning to have a positive effect, and taboos about this subject are beginning to be overcome.

“Every suicide is an enormous tragedy and anything we can do to let people know that they can talk about worries they may have about their mental health or wellbeing is a positive step. It was good to see so many new students involved in the events of the week and, in particular, the opening of a permanent base for the Western Isles Samaritans is good to see.

“Those who volunteer for the Samaritans in the islands, or who raise money for them, provide a vital service which the community should be grateful for. I wish them every success in their new home. Anyone who wishes to contact Samaritans confidentially can do so on 01851 703777.”

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