Join us on a Walk and Talk event on World Suicide Prevention Day
We are hosting a walk around Epsom Downs on 10th September to coincide with World Suicide Prevention Day. This event supports our Suicide Prevention Action Plan and aims to raise awareness of support and resources available to help those suffering from mental health issues or directly impacted by the loss of someone to suicide. Chris, founder of the organisation We Power On, a local walking group for Men's mental health and fitness, will lead the walk for all adults aged 18 and above.
Funding has been allocated from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund to We Power On to help residents access support in the borough.
Immediately after the walk we'll host a talk by Chris (founder of We Power On) about his experiences, and the importance of having support available for people suffering from mental health problems. We have commissioned a scribe to create artwork which will then go on a small ‘tour’ of the borough, ending at the Epsom Picturehouse on 10th October to coincide with Mental Health Awareness Day. We'll share more information in our the next issue and through our social media channels.
Residents will need to register to attend - 50 spaces are available for the walk and a further 50 spaces for those who only wish to attend The Jockey Club event - residents can choose to join both when registering. Visit the Event Registration Page(link is external) to register, this link goes through to an external site.
End Stigma Surrey, who are dedicated to raising awareness and reducing the stigma of mental health and are part of the council’s wider Suicide Prevention Action Plan, is also supporting this event.
Councillor Clive Woodbridge, Chair of the Community and Wellbeing Committee said:
“Mental health issues can have a devastating effect on sufferers and those close to them. No one should have to face mental health challenges alone and it’s important as a council that we do all that we can to ensure vulnerable residents are informed, and can access, vital support when they need it.
Working with partners is an essential part of our Suicide Prevention Action Plan and I’d like to thank We Power On, End Stigma Surrey, and The Jockey Club for their support with this event.
I’d encourage anyone experiencing mental health issues to seek help. One life lost is too much.”
Chris, founder of We Power On said:
“I’m pleased to be able to support the council with its walk and talk. Walking helped me especially during the Covid lockdown and I’m looking forward to leading the walk across Epsom Downs and also sharing my experiences in the following event. It’s important for everybody to know that they’re not alone, encourage conversations and keep highlighting where those people suffering from mental health issues can turn to for support.”
If you have any questions then please email Walkandtalk@epsom-ewell.gov.uk.
