Mental health charity uses graffiti to encourage connecting with others

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 9 Oct, 20:00 · Archive

Mental health charity Samaritans has printed graffiti-style quotes on London pavements to encourage people to check on those struggling.

The mental health charity Samaritans has printed graffiti-style quotes onto London pavements as part of a campaign to encourage people to check on those struggling with their wellbeing. The messages appear in locations including Camden High Street and Whitfield Gardens and form part of a partnership with the World Gold Council. Each quote measures about one metre by one metre and is based on words from someone who experienced suicidal thoughts but received help through timely intervention.

Research commissioned by the charity found that one in four people will experience suicidal thoughts in their lifetime, yet only one in ten Brits feel comfortable intervening if concerned about someone's wellbeing. The study of 2,000 adults found that 32 per cent fear saying the wrong thing, 18 per cent do not know how to help, 14 per cent worry about damaging the relationship, a third fear making the situation worse, and 27 per cent would not want to invade someone's privacy.

Samaritans CEO Julie Bentley said suicidal thoughts can be interrupted and that 'a small interruption can make a huge difference'. She urged people not to worry about 'saying the perfect thing', but simply to interrupt and ask if someone is okay, as 'it could be life-saving'.

How it is being reported

• Charity sprays graffiti on London streets as it issues 'important reminder'A mental health charity left a series of graffiti on across streets in LondonDaily Express · 9 Oct, 19:35
• Mental health charity sprays city streets in graffiti - 'it could be life-saving'Graffiti-style quotes have appeared on the streets of London as part of a new campaign designed to get Brits talking.The Mirror · 9 Oct, 18:21

In this story: Samaritans · World Gold Council · London · Camden High Street · Julie Bentley

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