Staff at Ulverston's Orca Therapies given suicide prevention training

Cumbrian-based Every Life Matters is working in partnership with local business owners to start more conversations about mental health and suicide.

The initiative is offering free suicide prevention training and resources to hairdressers, barbers, beauticians and tattoo artists across Cumbria.

The training is in light of the growing recognition of the role that various community members can play in supporting clients’ mental health and wellbeing.

Across Cumbria, on average one person every five days dies to suicide and recent stats show that Cumbria has a suicide rate 55 per cent higher than the national average.

Tara Linkowska, 34, who owns ORCA Therapies on Market Street, says she was keen to undertake the training and has been affected by suicide personally.

"Around 15 years ago, I lost my dad to suicide," Tara said. "I was 19 and my sister Imogen was seven.

"It's not only something we had to grow up with but we also know friends and relatives that have been affected by suicide.

"I've been a holistic therapist for around 12 years and I'm very aware of not only the physical effects but also the psychological effects, treatments can have on people.

"We're one-to-one with clients and they can feel safe in this environment and even express their emotions without feeling any judgment.

"We have had clients who have been going through a bad time who have cried or broken down whilst they're here.

"There has been a time when I felt the need to notify someone's doctor after becoming very concerned."

A member of Every Life Matters came out to the salon to deliver the suicide prevention training to Tara and her sister.

They now wear an orange button under the community scheme to show that 'they're here to listen'.

The training helped them how to be confident in dealing with someone potentially in crisis and how to listen without being judgmental - along with supporting people with signposting.

After undergoing the short course and guidance, the therapists feel comfortable in pointing people in the right direction to the relevant services for help.

Tara added: "It's really allowed us to take a step back and now we feel we have the resources there to deal with anyone who may seem like they're having suicidal feelings or thoughts.

"The training is great and we would definitely recommend other businesses to take part."

The charity is inviting hairdressers, beauticians, barbers and tattooists to join them for a free training session taking place at Whitehaven Rugby League Football Club on Monday April 15 2024.

If your business would like to register interest, please contact sarah.cameron@every-life-Matters.org.uk.