Walk with us for Suicide Prevention.

Lancashire Mind are hosting our first ever Candlelight Walk to mark World Suicide Prevention Day.

Prevention starts with awareness; awareness starts with you.

In response to the alarmingly high suicide rates across the region, Lancashire Mind will host its first-ever Candlelight Walk through Chorley’s Astley Park on the 10th of September to mark World Suicide Prevention Day.

This event is designed to bring the community together in solidarity, honouring those lost to suicide and supporting those impacted by it. It’s an opportunity for us to unite in remembrance of those we have lost to suicide, support those who have been affected, and take collective action to prevent further tragedies.

Helen Parry, project lead for the Orange Button Scheme within Lancashire and South Cumbria Integrated Care Board, said: “The Orange Button scheme is designed to encourage people to talk about their thoughts and to signpost them to all the amazing services locally, so any event like this that also raises awareness is extremely important. Lancashire has one of the highest rates of suicide in the country, so it will be great to have so many like-minded people coming together to show their commitment to preventing suicide and show their support for people who are affected.”

Taking action – Preventing Suicide

During the event, we will also be promoting our partnership with Lancashire & South Cumbria ICB’s Orange Button Scheme, an initiative that provides free suicide prevention training to individuals, empowering them to offer immediate support to those in crisis.

This scheme is a vital part of our broader strategy to equip our community with the tools necessary to reduce suicide rates and promote mental wellbeing.

Details on suicide prevention training

A first for Lancashire Mind

This marks the first time Lancashire Mind has organised such an event, and it comes in response to the urgent need to address suicide rates in the county. “We need to address this issue head-on and take action,” said Lauren McAteer, Marketing & Communications Managers at Lancashire Mind. “This walk is a chance for our community to come together, to remember, to support, and most importantly, to act. Showing that together, we can turn the tide on suicide and build a future where every life is valued and supported.”

Real Stories, Real Impact

The event will be attended by individuals who have been personally affected by suicide—those who have lost loved ones and those who have themselves faced thoughts of suicide. These stories will underscore the importance of community support, open dialogue, and proactive measures in suicide prevention.

“The Orange Button is more than just a symbol—it’s a lifeline. It represents our collective commitment to preventing suicide and supporting those in crisis. By becoming an Orange Button holder, you stand as a beacon of hope, ready to make a difference in someone’s darkest moment.” Karen Arrowsmith, Workplace Wellbeing and Training Lead at Lancashire Mind.