By Jane Corscadden

Copyright belfastlive

Local politicians and the West Belfast community have gathered to launch a mental health campaign from a local charity. Suicide Awareness and Support Group, based on the Falls Road , launched their #MovingMindsTogether campaign on Wednesday night, September 10, to mark World Suicide Prevention Day. The community organisation’s mission is aiming to prevent suicide in their community. Their campaign aims to raise awareness of how to sustain positive mental health, by staying physically and socially active more often, to support short and long-term mental health. They will be hosting a number of events throughout the month, including “The Big Yarnder” from Divis flats to Kennedy Centre on Saturday, September 20 from 12pm, where people are encouraged to come along for a yarn and a dander. West Belfast MLA Órlaithí Flynn attended the campaign launch. She is encouraging people to have their say on her proposed Private Member’s Bill which would make suicide prevention training mandatory for frontline staff in public bodies and government departments. The proposed Suicide Prevention Training Bill would place a legal duty on public sector employers to provide training to all staff in public-facing roles, including those in health services, education , social care, law enforcement, and other key sectors. This legislation is not about creating mental health experts, but equipping staff with the basic tools and awareness needed to make a real difference. As Sinn Féin’s spokesperson on mental health, suicide prevention, and drug and alcohol addiction, Flynn has spent the past eight years meeting families who have lost loved ones to suicide. Their stories, often marked by grief and resilience, have strengthened her resolve to deliver meaningful improvements in how we support people in crisis. She said: “These staff members work directly with the public every day. With the right training, they can recognise warning signs, respond appropriately, and provide timely support. “This legislation represents a proactive and compassionate response to a serious public health issue. It aims to foster a culture of awareness and care within public services, reduce stigma, and ensure that no one in crisis feels invisible or unsupported. Ms. Flynn concluded: “Given the tragic rates of suicide, especially in our most deprived communities where individuals are twice as likely to die by suicide as those in more affluent areas, this training can save lives. This is the practical, preventative change that is urgently needed.” Lord Mayor of Belfast Councillor Tracy Kelly also attended the event, and said: “Suicide Awareness and Support Group are a charity that deliver bereavement support to those bereaved by suicide and their dedication to supporting our communities through compassion and understanding is a source of hope for so many. “I am honoured to launch this campaign especially on World Suicide Prevention Day – suicide affects so many including the individual, the family and those left behind. “Open discussion and understanding of mental health is so important in today’s society and should be encouraged as much as possible. Thanks to this incredible charity, more people in our city will know that it is ok to reach out, talk to someone and ask for help when it is needed.” To have your say in the public consultation, click here. Anyone who needs to talk to someone about mental health issues can call the Samaritans on 116123 or Lifeline on 0808 808 8000 . For all the latest news, visit the Belfast Live homepage here and sign up to our daily newsletter here.