Translink NI Railways and Samaritans have joined forces to launch ‘We’re In Your Corner’; a hard-hitting campaign to promote the charity’s emotional support services and help prevent suicides on the local rail network.
The new partnership also provides support for Translink employees who find themselves in challenging and highly sensitive circumstances when dealing with someone in distress.
The campaign has secured support from a wide range of local sporting personalities to help reinforce the message that support is available to anyone in need.
In particular, the campaign targets men, who are three times more likely to take their own lives than women, urging them to talk about their problems and consider calling Samaritans’ helpline.
In addition, a special training programme is now being rolled out across Translink NI Railways. It’s modelled on a successful five-year partnership between Samaritans and Network Rail in Great Britain.
Speaking at the campaign launch in Belfast Central Station, Translink Group Chief Executive Catherine Mason said:
“Suicide prevention and post incident care are extremely sensitive issues that we want to address in the most effective and responsible ways possible.
“Samaritans provide confidential emotional support services 24/7, working to alleviate emotional distress and promote emotional wellbeing. We recognise the immense value of this new partnership in providing support for both our employees and the general public.”
To date, almost 100 Translink rail employees have attended Samaritans training and Translink has now launched a station poster campaign across the rail network to highlight Samaritans support available for anyone in distress.
For further information click www.translink.co.uk/samaritans.
