THE police have sent out a strong message saying that ‘all suicides are preventable’ providing people get the support they need.

As part of The Mail’s ‘Time to Talk’ campaign, Cumbria Police have spoken out about their concerns as well as their involvement in suicide prevention after it was revealed that at least five men had taken their own lives since Boxing Day, including the loss of 18-year-old Jake Davies, from Askam, and 27-year-old Will Taylor, from Barrow.

A spokesman from Cumbria Police said how it was their belief that ‘all suicides are preventable’ if those who feel suicidal are able to get support and help when required.

They say ‘suicide is a concern across the county’ and their officers are often the first to respond to someone experiencing a mental health crisis.

The Mail’s ‘Time to Talk’ campaign aims to highlight the support and advice that is widely available for anyone in crisis.

The campaign also aims to shed the light on the fact that some men are keeping their problems bottled up leading to tragic consequences in the area.

The recent rise in incidents in Barrow has led to much concern as well as an outpouring of grief.

The Mail wants to encourage more people, particularly young men, to open up about the problems they are having and to not feel trapped by the stigma which surrounds asking for help.

Cumbria police has specialist officers available 24 hours a day to support those in crisis when appropriate and although they are trained in mental health awareness and crisis intervention they are not mental health experts.

They work closely with other organisations such as the Cumbria Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, who provide mental health services, to ensure that the best treatment is provided when required.

The Mail also plan to work alongside charities to raise awareness of the behind-the-scenes work they do to show people the support available and to prove they are not alone.

Where to seek help

The Samaritans free helpline can be contacted 24hours a day 365 days a year by phoning 116 123.

Local support is available from Mind in Furness (01229 827094), Ulverston Mind (01229 581578) and South Lakeland Mind (01539 740591)

For those bereaved by suicide you can find your nearest SOBS support group at uksobs.org or call 0300 111 5065

For children bereaved by suicide, the Child Bereavement UK helpline is 0800 02 888 40