Cumberland FA have been working in partnership with Every Life Matters for a number of seasons.
So far, the grassroots football community has raised almost £2,000 to support the charity’s work, promoting suicide safer communities and bereavement support across Cumbria.
World Suicide Prevention Day, on Sunday September 10, is an annual reminder that there is an alternative to suicide, and it aims to inspire confidence.
Every Life Matters are asking those involved in sport to hold a period of silence ahead of games this weekend to remember those who have died from suicide, and to highlight that silence is not the option and talking about suicide saves lives.
Cumberland FA are supporting teams to host a minute’s silence during their home games this weekend around World Suicide Prevention Day.
A spokesman said: “A minute’s silence is to remember those lost to suicide and to show support for people in our communities who are living with thoughts of suicide. Teams are asked to stay silent before the game to show silence is not an option when in need.
“As a suicide prevention charity, Every Life Matters come from the perspective that suicide is everyone’s business. Across Cumbria we sadly lose one life to suicide every six days within our county, with our rates of suicide being higher than the national average.
“Every Life Matters has created a special sports pack to provide resources for teams to share among their local community and help build awareness. This includes social media graphics, posters and ways to get involved.
“Within the pack are Every Life Matters graphics and text for teams and clubs to promote on social media and within match day programmes (should they wish), as well as ways to get involved and training opportunities.
“To help promote events around Cumbria and build awareness of the key messages throughout the season, Every Life Matters are looking for teams that would be comfortable filming short videos that can be used across social media. These will be 20-30 seconds long and scripts/key messages can be provided (examples are also included in the sports pack).
“Any club interested in getting involved or would like to get some physical resources for this weekend, or even a chat, can email Sarah at [email protected].”
