World Suicide Prevention Day – raising awareness of suicide prevention

September 2024 PayPlan Blog #2

On the 10th of September every year, organisations and communities around the world come together to raise awareness of how we can create a world where fewer people die by suicide. The theme for 2024 is to Change The Narrative.

Every 90 minutes, someone in the UK or Ireland takes their own life.*

Research shows that asking someone if they’re feeling suicidal doesn’t make things worse. It can instead give them a chance to open up, share their feelings, and seek help.

If someone confides in you about having suicidal thoughts, always take them seriously. You don’t need to be an expert – just being there to listen and showing that you care can really help them work through what they’re feeling. Let them know they’re not a burden and that there’s always someone they can turn to, whether it’s a family member, a friend, or anonymously through our partner Samaritans, who are available 24/7.

Using the right language when talking about suicide is also important. By choosing our words carefully, we can break down stigma and create a safe space for people to open up.

Accessing help to support someone with suicidal thoughts

Our partner, Samaritans, have put together a guide for supporting someone with suicidal thoughts.

If you believe someone is in immediate danger of suicide, it’s best to call 999 for an ambulance to help them in the quickest way possible.

Support after suicide

If you’ve experienced the loss of someone through suicide or a sudden death, or for help with any type of bereavement, we also work closely with The National Bereavement Service (NBS), who are a  free-to-access, not-for-profit organisation who provide practical and emotional support after a death.

NBS delivers fast and professional bereavement support and their  specialist advisers will guide you through what happens next, what to expect and the practical steps to take after someone has died. They can also signpost you to other organisations for more specific help if you need it.

Contacting PayPlan

Whatever your circumstances, if you find yourself struggling with debt, we’re here to support you. By working closely with a large network of support organisations, we can ensure you’re signposted to any additional help you might need. There are a number of ways you can get in touch.

If you are struggling with debts call us on 0800 072 1206. We’re open from 8am – 8pm Monday to Friday and 9am – 3pm on Saturdays.

Alternatively, you can visit our www.payplan.com/bfawu  to speak to us via live chat or for more information.

*Samaritans -https://www.samaritans.org/support-us/why-we-need-your-help/