The International Association for Suicide Prevention’s (IASP) global event is held each year to raise awareness of suicide and suicide prevention.

According to the IASP, more than 800,000 people take their lives each year – and young men and those aged between 15 and 24 are at particular risk.

The event comes just weeks after the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service launched its first ever Mental Health Strategy to help colleagues either needing support or help them spot the signs of mental ill health in others. It was endorsed by Prince William and Community Safety Minister Ash Denham.

Our Director of People and Organisational Development, Liz Barnes, has urged all people across Scotland to seek support should they experience mental ill health.

She said: "Sadly, mental health remains a taboo subject but this needs to change because suicide continues to devastate families far too often both here in Scotland and across the world.

“As a national emergency service, we are determined to play our part in promoting awareness around suicide prevention and join that global voice encouraging everyone to speak out and seek support.

“It is imperative that we take this opportunity to consider suicide and its impact through events such as this so that we can all work towards finally eliminating the stigma.”

She added: "We have recently launched our new national Mental Health Strategy to help staff better protect their own mental health and today we stand with all of our partners to encourage communities to do the same. Help is out there and I would appeal to anyone suffering or feeling like they are alone to please – please - speak to someone."

Anyone struggling with mental ill health can contact the Samaritans on 116 123.

For more on World Suicide Prevention Day visit https://www.iasp.info/

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