Somerset residents are invited to come together for the fourth annual Walk for a Life, a meaningful event dedicated to remembrance and suicide prevention. Organized by Somerset Council’s public health team alongside various statutory and voluntary groups, the walk will take place on Saturday, September 6, aiming to honor those lost to suicide while fostering open conversations about mental health and reducing associated stigma.
The walk begins at 10:30 a.m. from the Quaker Meeting House in Bath Place, Taunton. This accessible route, suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs, winds through Taunton town centre before reaching Vivary Park’s “Afterlife” bench. Donated by Netflix in recognition of Ricky Gervais’ series After Life, the bench serves as a reflective space where participants can lay flowers in tribute to loved ones.
Well-behaved dogs on short leads are welcome to join the procession.
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The urgency of this cause is underscored by staggering statistics: in England, someone dies by suicide approximately every 90 minutes. According to the Adult Psychiatric Morbidity Survey, one in four people will experience suicidal thoughts during their lifetime, and one in 13 will attempt suicide.
Councillor Graham Oakes, lead member for public health, climate change, and environment, said, “I encourage everyone to join us on September 6 for the Walk for a Life. This is a powerful opportunity to raise awareness, support each other, and remind everyone that help is always available. Whether you attend in memory of a loved one or to stand in solidarity against suicide, your presence is invaluable.”
Following the walk, from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m., attendees can access refreshments and support at local organisation stalls, offering advice and a listening ear. Among the displays will be squares from the Speak Their Name Memorial Quilt, a community artwork commemorating those across Somerset lost to suicide.
Those wishing to contribute a square to the memorial quilt can request an information pack by emailing [email protected].
For more details, visit www.walkforalife.org.uk. If you or someone you know needs urgent support, contact Mindline Somerset’s 24/7 helpline at 01823 276 892 or Freephone 0800 138 1692.