Ravenscraig was filled with a real sense of community on Wednesday 9 September as around 200 players and spectators from local workplaces, community groups, voluntary organisations and friends groups came together for North and South Lanarkshire’s annual 7-a-side football tournament.
Organised by North and South Lanarkshire Councils’ Suicide Prevention campaigns, the tournament was about much more than football. It brought people together to raise awareness, challenge the stigma around suicide and mental health, and remind everyone that support is available.
Provost Kenneth Duffy said: “Events like this show the power of community in tackling really difficult issues. Suicide affects far too many families across Lanarkshire, and days like today remind us that it’s okay to talk, it’s okay to ask for help, and that support is always there.
“I’d like to thank everyone who took part and helped make the day such a positive and welcoming event. By coming together and starting conversations, we can help make sure people know they don’t have to face things on their own.”
Depute Leader, Councillor Louise Roarty, said: “It was great to see so many people coming together, having fun and supporting such an important message. Sometimes simply having a chat can make a real difference, and days like this help make those conversations a little easier.”
Stalls from SAMH, Scottish Fire and Rescue, Police Scotland, Ponies, Lanarkshire Carers and Happy n Health were also on hand throughout the day, offering advice, information and support and highlighting the importance of talking openly about mental health.
Stephen Llewellyn, Depute Chief Executive, said: “A huge thank you to everyone who came along, took part and helped make the tournament such a great day. It was fantastic to see so many people from across our communities coming together and supporting such an important message.
“Suicide prevention is something we all have a part to play in, and creating opportunities for people to talk, connect and look out for one another really matters. I’d also like to thank our brilliant organising team and all of our partners and volunteers for the hard work that went into making the event happen. Their commitment and enthusiasm helped create a day where people could come together, have fun and, most importantly, have those vital conversations.”
If you need support, you can contact Samaritans on 116 123 or Breathing Space on 0800 83 85 87 or visit our Suicide Prevention NL webpage.