Orkney’s first Suicide Prevention Awareness Event planned

Organisations across Orkney will come together to host the first Suicide Prevention Awareness event, next month.

This free, inclusive event on Thursday 25 September is open to everyone in the community, not just health and care professionals, and aims to foster hope, connection, and support for those affected by suicide.

The event will feature a vibrant community marketplace, showcasing stalls from a wide range of local organisations offering mental health resources, wellbeing support, and information on services available across Orkney.

Attendees will have the opportunity to speak directly with support groups, charities, and professionals dedicated to suicide prevention and emotional wellbeing.

There will also be headline speakers making the trip to Orkney for the event who will be providing informative talks and workshops.

Highlights of the event include:

• A welcoming and safe space for open conversations

• Guest speakers including Josie Barclay from RSABI, Mike Palmer from Three Dads Walking and Haylis Smith from Suicide Prevention Scotland  

• A run through of the new SOS app

• Table top discussions and a question and answer session

• Free resources and guidance from local support services

Stephen Brown, Chief Officer at Orkney Health and Care said: “This event is about bringing our community together to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and show that support is available. Whether you’re seeking help, want to support others, or simply learn more, everyone is welcome.”

The Suicide Prevention Awareness Event is part of NHS Orkney and Orkney Islands Council’s ongoing commitment to promoting mental health and wellbeing across the islands. By creating a space where people can connect, learn, and feel supported, the event hopes to make a lasting impact on the lives of individuals and families throughout the community.

We’d ask everyone intending to come to the event to please register your free place online, where you can also view the full itinerary for the event, click here.

If you are having thoughts of suicide, please reach out for help, speak to someone you trust or call one of these helplines:

• Samaritans 116 123 or use the online chat at samaritans.org

• Breathing Space 0800 83 85 87

• NHS 24 mental health hub on 111

If you are ever in immediate danger or have the means to cause yourself harm, you should dial 999 and request an ambulance.