Behind The Smile host Suicide Prevention walk in Worcester

About a dozen residents gathered at Sabrina Bridge in Worcester to join the charity Behind The Smile to remember those who had died.

READ MORE: Mum bereaved by suicide fights to improve services which 'failed her son'

The event was designed to mark World Suicide Prevention Day on Tuesday (September 10).

Poems were read by residents to shine a light on suicide. (Image: Behind the Smile) The weather did not deter residents from supporting the event as they arrived at Sabrina Bridge with coats and umbrellas. 

On Saturday (September 7), residents took turns lighting candles and reading poems.

Behind the Smile is a Worcester-based charity formed by the parents of William Pritchard after he died by suicide aged 29.

REMEMBERED: Gaynor and Zac PritchardGaynor Pritchard, Mr Pritchard's mother and co-founder of Behind The Smile, said: "The weather was dark, foggy, damp and gloomy, but in some respects, it fitted the occasion."

REMEMBER: One of the poems being read. (Image: Behind the Smile) At the end of the walk, the group read the names of those they wished to remember, had a final reflection, and read a poem. 

The charity was set up five years ago to help plug the gap in NHS provision by offering peer support and walk-and-talk groups.

It aims to support those during times of poor mental health and those bereaved by suicide.

Helplines

• The Herefordshire and Worcestershire 24 hour urgent mental health helpline is available to anyone needing urgent mental health support. Its free to call and open 24 hours a day to people of all ages - 0808 196 9127
• Worcestershire Safe Haven provides telephone support and face-to-face appointments to Worcestershire residents who are experiencing a mental health crisis. Call 01905 600400 any day of the week between 6pm and midnight for support and signposting.
• Call 116 123 to talk to Samaritans, or email: jo@samaritans.org for a reply within 24 hours