A series of motivational messages have appeared at stations across the UK rail network to coincide with World Suicide Prevention Day.
Rail operator Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR), which runs Southern, Thameslink, Great Northern and Gatwick Express services, has unveiled 'Affirmation Art’ clusters across some of its busiest stations to raise awareness of the company’s ongoing support and understanding to those who may be feeling vulnerable.
Working closely with partners such as Samaritans, Network Rail and the British Transport Police, GTR continually works to support people across its network.
In the last year there have been 426 GTR interventions and 35 fatalities, with a 57 per cent increase in lifesaving interventions since 2019 across GTR’s rail network.
A team of artists began spraying motivational messages in chalk across station entrances and exits during the early hours of Thursday morning (September 10) to mark World Suicide Prevention Day.
GTR suicide prevention manager, Laura Campbell, said: “It is important to raise awareness of the support that is available to those that may need it and educate the wider community about the complexities inherent in mental health as well as suicide.
"The Affirmations Art campaign looks to do just that, in a subtle and visual way.
"I think it’s incredibly important that we’re raising awareness and showing signs of positivity on what will be quite a stark day for many.”
The artwork will remain in stations serving as a continued show of the operator’s focus on suicide prevention 365 days a year.
Tom Moran, managing director for Great Northern and Thameslink at GTR, said: “As part of this campaign, we wanted to send a reminder of hope and support to anyone that may need it.
"It really is ok to not be ok and we want to encourage people to talk and support each other. We understand the pressures passengers and people in the communities we serve may be facing and we hope this shows our support and togetherness.”
Samaritans’ volunteers are available around the clock, seven days a week providing emotional support and a listening ear to anyone who needs help.
Anyone can call Samaritans for free on 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org for emotional support from a trained volunteer.
