Samaritans launch graffiti campaign to help those with suicidal thoughts

Summarised from 4 outlets · Updated 9 Oct, 15:08 · Archive

Samaritans have created reverse graffiti across London to encourage people to reach out to those experiencing suicidal thoughts.

Samaritans have launched a graffiti campaign across London designed to encourage people to support those experiencing suicidal thoughts. Five quotes appear on pavements at locations including Camden High Street and Whitfield Gardens, each measuring 1m by 1m. The messages feature accounts from someone who was in crisis but saved by timely intervention.

The campaign forms part of the World Gold Council's partnership with Samaritans. It aims to show how a simple act of connection could help save a life, encouraging people to reach out to those they are concerned about to interrupt any possible suicidal thoughts.

Research commissioned by the charity surveyed 2,000 adults and found only one in ten Brits feel comfortable intervening if they are concerned about someone's wellbeing. Of those surveyed, 32 per cent fear they would say the wrong thing, while 18 per cent don't know how to help after reaching out.

Julie Bentley, CEO of Samaritans, said suicidal thoughts can be interrupted. 'This campaign is all about reminding people as they go about their daily lives that a small interruption can make a huge difference,' she said. 'If you think someone might be struggling or experiencing suicidal thoughts, don't worry about saying the perfect thing just interrupt and ask if they're OK, it could be life-saving.'

The charity notes that one in four people will experience suicidal thoughts in their lifetime, making it likely that anyone seeing the messages will know someone struggling.

How it is being reported

• New Samaritans grafitti aims to help those experiencing suicidal thoughts.Samaritans have interrupted people’s days with graffiti designed to encourage them to ‘reach in’ and help those experiencing suicidal thoughts.Croydon Guardian · 9 Oct, 14:57
• New Samaritans grafitti aims to help those experiencing suicidal thoughts.Samaritans have interrupted people’s days with graffiti designed to encourage them to ‘reach in’ and help those experiencing suicidal thoughts.Wandsworth Guardian · 9 Oct, 14:57
• New Samaritans grafitti aims to help those experiencing suicidal thoughts.Samaritans have interrupted people’s days with graffiti designed to encourage them to ‘reach in’ and help those experiencing suicidal thoughts.News Shopper · 9 Oct, 14:57
• New Samaritans grafitti aims to help those experiencing suicidal thoughts.Samaritans have interrupted people’s days with graffiti designed to encourage them to ‘reach in’ and help those experiencing suicidal thoughts.This Is Local London · 9 Oct, 14:57

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

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