THERE has been a dramatic increase in the number of lives saved on the West Midlands’ railways according to figures released as part of a campaign by The Samaritans.
Small Talk Saves Lives is operated by the organisation in conjunction with Network Rail, the British Transport Police and wider rail industry and encourages passengers to act on their instincts if they see anyone who may need help.
It aims to empower the public to act to prevent someone from taking their own life by speaking to them.
The drive emphasises that everyone has all the experience needed to help save a life.
The statistics show that this year in the region there have been 16 life-saving interventions, compared to seven last year.
Since the launch of the campaign the figures reveal a 20 per cent increase in interventions made by members of the public nationwide. This means that around one in ten interventions are made by the public.
People are urged to make small talk which could interrupt someone’s suicidal thoughts.
There is no single sign or combination of behaviours that mean a person needs help, but if something does not feel right, the message is to act.
Small Talk Saves Lives was developed after research showed passengers could have a key role to play in suicide prevention, along with the thousands of rail staff and British Transport Police now trained by Samaritans.
Richard Godwin, suicide prevention manager said: “If you think someone may need help, trust your instincts and start a conversation.
Alternatively, find a member of staff who can help.”
Ruth Sutherland, Samaritans CEO, said: “It’s really heartening to see more members of the public feeling they have the confidence and knowledge to act if they’re worried about someone, and we are grateful for their support.”
Over the next two weeks, Samaritans volunteers will be at stations, handing out information and a new campaign video is being shared to encourage rail passengers to look out for one another.
Commuters will also hear a special announcement by radio presenter and TV personality, Gaby Roslin.
She said: “Once you know that you have the power to make a difference, you’re more likely to step in and do something.
I wanted to get involved in the Small Talk Saves Lives campaign after noticing someone in a park and trusting my instincts.
“Just a few words can have a huge impact.”
Anyone can contact Samaritans for free anytime on 116 123 or email [email protected] or go to www.samaritans.org to find details of your nearest branch where you can talk to a trained volunteer face to face.
Story by Demi Andrews.
